Citrus Marinated Olives

Winter is citrus season and I absolutely love to stock up (especially on grapefruit). When citrus is at its peak, it deserves to be the star! These extra-citrusy marinated olives are bursting with fresh orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit zest and juice, creating a bold, aromatic snack. Briny olives soak up the vibrant flavors, making this an easy appetizer that’s perfect for winter entertaining.

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, add olive oil, shallot, garlic, herbs, crushed red pepper, and fennel seeds; season to taste with freshly cracked black pepper. Warm for 3-4 minutes, or until fragrant and just softened.

2. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the citrus zest and juice.

3. Place olives in a medium bowl or jar. Pour the warm citrus marinade over the olives. If using a jar, secure with a lid and toss occasionally to make sure the olives are well coated.

4. Let marinate at room temperature for at least 45 minutes. For best flavor, refrigerate for 12-24 hours, then bring to room temperature before serving.

Citrus Marinated Olives

Makes 2 1/2 cups

All you need:

¼ cup olive oil

1 small shallot, very thinly sliced

2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

1 sprig rosemary 

1 sprig thyme

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds 

Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste 

2 ½ cups mixed olives (Castelvetrano, Kalamata, or a mix), drained

Zest and juice of 1 orange

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Zest and juice of 1 lime

Zest and juice of ½ grapefruit

All you do:

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, add olive oil, shallot, garlic, herbs, crushed red pepper, and fennel seeds; season to taste with freshly cracked black pepper. Warm for 3-4 minutes, or until fragrant and just softened.
2. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the citrus zest and juice.
3. Place olives in a medium bowl or jar. Pour the warm citrus marinade over the olives. If using a jar, secure with a lid and toss occasionally to make sure the olives are well coated.
4. Let marinate at room temperature for at least 45 minutes. For best flavor, refrigerate for 12-24 hours, then bring to room temperature before serving.