Dessert

Citrus Herb Marinated Olives Recipe

ByHarper Ellington March 27, 2026March 27, 2026

Introduction

Citrus Herb Marinated Olives are a delightful appetizer that combines the bright flavors of citrus with fragrant herbs. This easy recipe transforms simple mixed olives into a flavorful snack perfect for entertaining or savoring at home.

A black plate holds four food sections arranged separately: a small pile of green and brown olives on the top left, a white creamy cheese with green herbs on top on the top right, three round crackers stacked on the bottom right, and thin slices of pinkish prosciutto on the bottom left with a portion of cheese being scooped by a woman's hand holding a spoon. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and in the background, there is a white bowl with more olives and a wooden board with sliced cured meat and a green basil leaf. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup extra virgin olive oil
5 cloves garlic, smashed
5-6 strips citrus peel (lemon and orange)
2 tsp grated orange zest
1 tsp cumin seed, lightly crushed
1 tbsp fresh chopped rosemary
1 tbsp fresh chopped thyme
1 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
2 leaves bay
3 cups mixed olives, black and green, unpitted

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, gently heat the olive oil and smashed garlic cloves over low heat until the mixture is quite warm, about 2 minutes. This releases the garlic’s aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Add the citrus peels, grated orange zest, lightly crushed cumin seeds, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, crushed red pepper if using, and bay leaves to the warm oil. Continue warming over very low heat for 3 more minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the mixed olives, ensuring they are fully coated with the flavored oil and herbs.
Step 4: Transfer the olives along with the marinade into a sealed container. Refrigerate and let them marinate for at least 2 days and up to 1 week to deepen the flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of your favorite olives—Kalamata, Castelvetrano, and green olives work beautifully for varied texture and flavor.
If you prefer a milder spice, omit the crushed red pepper.
Try adding a splash of dry white wine or a few sliced chili peppers for an extra flavor twist.

Storage

Store the marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, allow the olives to come to room temperature for the best flavor. The infused oil can also be used in salad dressings or drizzled over grilled vegetables.

How to Serve

A black plate with four sections of food: green and brown olives in the top left, a white creamy spread with green herbs in the top right, three round crackers in the bottom right, and thin slices of pink cured meat with a dollop of white spread on top in the bottom left, where a woman's hand is holding a small spoon near the meat. The plate is on a white marbled surface with a bowl of olives and slices of red cured meat in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pitted olives instead of unpitted?

Yes, pitted olives can be used if you prefer. Just note that unpitted olives often retain more flavor and texture during marinating.

How long should the olives marinate before eating?

For best results, marinate the olives for at least 2 days. This allows the flavors to fully develop, but they can be enjoyed up to a week after preparation.