Marinated Greek Olives with Grape Tomatoes and Feta Cheese π π§
Overview:
Prepare yourself for a burst of Mediterranean flavors with this delightful Marinated Greek Olives with Grape Tomatoes and Feta Cheese recipe! Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or craving a superb appetizer for your Greek-themed dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The cook time may seem lengthy, but it’s mostly due to the marinating process, which infuses the olives with tantalizing flavors. π
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 24 hours
- Total Time: 24 hours and 15 minutes
- Serves: A crowd π
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup green olives
- 1/4 cup oregano
- 3 crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 red onion
- 1 garlic clove
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons parsley
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 cups grape tomatoes
- 6 ounces feta cheese
Instructions:
For the Marinated Olives:
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Combine Ingredients: In a large resealable freezer bag, combine the Kalamata olives, green olives, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, extra virgin olive oil, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
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Marinate: Seal the bag tightly, removing as much air as possible. Place it in the refrigerator and let the olives marinate for a glorious 24 hours, giving the bag a gentle toss 2 or 3 times during this period to ensure all the flavors mingle harmoniously.
For the Cheese and Tomatoes:
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Prep: While the olives are marinating, prepare the grape tomatoes and feta cheese.
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Drizzle: Drizzle the grape tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
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Season: Sprinkle the tomatoes and feta with a pinch of oregano and some freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
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Rest: Cover the tomatoes and feta and let them stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
Bringing It All Together:
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Combine: Once the olives have marinated to perfection, combine them with the seasoned grape tomatoes and feta cheese in a large serving bowl. Toss everything together gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
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Serve: Present this flavorful medley to your guests, and watch as they dive in with gusto! Serve alongside crusty bread or crackers for a complete experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 549
- Fat: 55.3g
- Saturated Fat: 12.7g
- Cholesterol: 37.9mg
- Sodium: 1292.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3.2g
- Sugar: 2.6g
- Protein: 7.3g
Tips:
- For a bit of extra zing, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinated olives.
- Don’t skimp on the marinating time; it’s essential for infusing the olives with flavor.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite Mediterranean herbs or spices.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where they’ll continue to develop flavor over time.
Final Thoughts:
With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and easy preparation, this Marinated Greek Olives with Grape Tomatoes and Feta Cheese recipe is a true winner! Whether you’re serving it as a starter at your next gathering or simply indulging in a flavorful snack, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the taste of Greece right in your own home! π¬π·π½οΈ