Spiced Marinated Olives

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 10 minutes
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Olives
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 2 tsp whole coriander seeds
  • 1 tbsp whole cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp dried crushed red pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • grated orange peel from 2 oranges
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 10 oz assorted brine-cured green and black olives (I just go to the Whole Foods olive bar and have at it!)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, minced
  • 3 tbsp fresh basil, minced
  • 8 oz feta cheese (or non-dairy cheese), cut into 1/2 inch squares (Optional)

Instructions

  • Ok, you can do this one of two ways.
  • You can (1) Combine all the ingredients in a bowl, mix and put in the fridge or...
  • Or (2) Heat all the spices (cumin, coriander, and crushed red pepper) in heavy small skillet over medium-high heat for 1 minute.
  • Transfer to warmed spices to a bowl.
  • Add oil, garlic, orange peel, basil and cilantro and stir to combine.
  • Mix in olives.
  • Gently stir in feta or non-dairy cheese (or no cheese).
  • Cover and refrigerate for a 2 hours or overnight.

Notes

*This dish gets even better the longer it marinates! I make it 1-2 days ahead when I have the chance but it can be made up to a week in advance.