International Cuisine > Spanish Cuisine > Tapas Recipes > Aceitunas Marinas (Marinated Olives) Recipe

Aceitunas Marinas: A Taste of the Spanish Coast

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Spain with this simple yet exquisite Aceitunas Marinas recipe. Marinated olives, a staple of Spanish tapas, are the perfect appetizer to awaken your palate. This recipe combines high-quality olives with aromatic herbs, zesty citrus, and a touch of spice for a truly authentic experience. Prepare to be transported to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean!

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes (Marinating time: minimum 2 hours, ideally overnight)
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 500 g Mixed Olives (Manzanilla, Gordal, Kalamata)
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 3 Garlic Cloves
  • 1 tsp Orange Zest
  • 1/2 tsp Lemon Zest
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley

Prepare the Olives

Drain the olives from their brine and rinse them gently under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the marinade adhere better.

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, orange zest, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Combine and Marinate

Place the olives in a clean jar or container. Pour the marinade over the olives, making sure they are well coated. Gently toss the olives to ensure they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the jar or container tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will become.

Serve and Garnish

Before serving, remove the marinated olives from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will enhance their flavor. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Chop the fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the olives. Serve the Aceitunas Marinas in a small bowl as part of a tapas spread or as an appetizer with crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g of product)

Calories: 150-200 kcal Fat: 15-20g Sodium: Varies depending on the olive type and salt content, typically 500-800mg Carbohydrates: 5-8g Protein: 1-2g Note: These values are estimates and may vary.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Olives are a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. However, they can be high in sodium. If you are watching your sodium intake, choose olives that are lower in sodium or rinse them thoroughly before marinating. The nutritional content will also vary depending on the specific type of olives used in the recipe.

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FAQ

  • Can I use different types of olives?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of olives to create your own unique blend. Manzanilla, Gordal, Kalamata, and Castelvetrano are all excellent choices. Just make sure they are pitted.
  • How long can I store the marinated olives?

    Marinated olives can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container. The flavor will continue to develop over time.
  • Can I add other ingredients to the marinade?

    Yes! Feel free to customize the marinade to your liking. Some other ingredients you might consider adding include: orange slices, lemon slices, rosemary sprigs, coriander seeds, or a splash of sherry vinegar.