Save to Pinterest A vibrant and festive appetizer featuring a medley of marinated olives and creamy feta cubes, perfect for entertaining and holiday gatherings.
This mix always brings a festive touch to our family parties and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Olives & Cheese: 1½ cups mixed olives (green and black, pitted), 200 g feta cheese, cut into 1 cm cubes
- Marinade: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed), 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional), 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced, ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional), freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, zest of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, combine the mixed olives and feta cubes.
- Step 2:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme (if using), garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Step 3:
- Pour the marinade over the olives and feta. Gently toss to coat evenly, being careful not to break up the feta.
- Step 4:
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Step 5:
- Before serving, bring to room temperature. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and lemon zest. Toss gently and serve.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this appetizer with loved ones creates joyful and memorable holiday moments.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or as part of a mezze platter for a complete festive spread.
Variations
Try adding strips of roasted red pepper or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor. Substitute feta with marinated goat cheese if preferred.
Storage
Keep marinated olives refrigerated and consume within 4 days for best freshness.
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This holiday mix is a simple yet elegant appetizer that elevates any gathering.
Questions & Answers
- → What type of olives work best in this mix?
Use a combination of green and black pitted olives for a balanced texture and flavor.
- → How long should the olives and feta marinate?
Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours, to deepen the flavors.
- → Can I add other ingredients to enhance the flavor?
Yes, additions like roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes complement the mix well.
- → Is this suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, all ingredients naturally exclude gluten, making it safe for gluten-free preferences.
- → How should this dish be served?
Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon zest for brightness.
- → What cheese alternatives can be used?
Marinated goat cheese can replace feta for a different yet complementary taste.