Aceitunas Al Tomillo, also known as Thyme-Scented Green Olives, is a classic Mediterranean dish that features green olives infused with the aromatic flavor of thyme. This dish is often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack and is a popular choice among olive enthusiasts.
History:
The history of marinating olives with herbs and spices dates back to ancient times. Olives have been a staple food in Mediterranean cultures for centuries, and various recipes for marinated olives have emerged over time. The combination of olives and thyme is a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Components:
The main components of Aceitunas Al Tomillo include:
- Green Olives: Use high-quality, brine-cured green olives for the best results. These olives should be pitted and rinsed to remove excess salt.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs or dried thyme leaves are used to infuse the olives with their distinct herbal aroma.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is used to coat the olives and create a flavorful base for marination.
- Garlic: Thinly sliced garlic cloves add a savory depth to the olives’ flavor profile.
- Lemon Zest: Grated lemon zest provides a zesty and citrusy note to the marinated olives.
Steps to Prepare Aceitunas Al Tomillo:
- Prepare the Olives: Rinse the green olives under cold water to remove excess salt. If the olives still have pits, make sure to remove them.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the rinsed olives, fresh thyme sprigs (or dried thyme leaves), thinly sliced garlic cloves, and grated lemon zest.
- Add Olive Oil: Pour extra virgin olive oil over the olive mixture. The amount of olive oil will depend on the quantity of olives you are using, but make sure the olives are well-coated.
- Mix and Marinate: Gently toss the olives to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the olives marinate in the refrigerator for at least a few hours. For more intense flavor, you can marinate them overnight.
- Serve: Once the olives have absorbed the flavors of thyme, garlic, and lemon, they are ready to be served. You can transfer them to a serving dish and garnish with additional thyme sprigs if desired.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Aceitunas Al Tomillo is relatively short. It usually takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix them together. However, the olives require some time to marinate and absorb the flavors, which typically takes at least a few hours or overnight. Therefore, the total time needed to prepare the dish can range from a few hours to a day, depending on the marination time you choose.
Enjoy your delicious Aceitunas Al Tomillo as a delightful appetizer or snack, and savor the harmonious blend of flavors that Mediterranean cuisine has to offer!
Certainly, here’s the nutrition information and health details for Aceitunas Al Tomillo (Thyme-Scented Green Olives):
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate values):
- Calories: Varies depending on serving size and olive type
- Total Fat: Varies depending on olive type and marination
- Saturated Fat: Varies depending on olive type and marination
- Sodium: Varies depending on olive type and marination
- Total Carbohydrates: Varies depending on olive type and marination
- Dietary Fiber: Varies depending on olive type and marination
- Sugars: Varies depending on olive type and marination
- Protein: Varies depending on olive type and marination
Health Information:
- Olives are a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which can be beneficial for heart health.
- The use of extra virgin olive oil in marinating the olives adds healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Thyme, garlic, and lemon zest provide additional flavor and potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties.
- Olives are naturally low in carbohydrates and can be part of a balanced diet.
- Keep in mind that olives can be high in sodium due to the brining process, so it’s advisable to consume them in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.
- The overall nutritional profile of Aceitunas Al Tomillo will depend on factors such as the type of olives used, the amount of olive oil added, and the marination process.
As with any dish, moderation is key, and it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian if you have specific dietary concerns or health goals.
