Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon

Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon Recipe from Tunisia

Region / culture: Tunisia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon is a flavorful and tangy dish that is perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. The combination of brine-cured olives, fresh herbs, and preserved lemon creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Mediterranean flavors and ingredients. Olives have been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, and their briny and slightly bitter taste pairs perfectly with the bright and fresh flavors of herbs and preserved lemon.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) small to medium brine-cured green olives (preferably cracked)*
0.25 cup chopped fresh coriander
3 tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves
peel of 0.5 preserved lemon, cut into julienne strips, plus 3 tbsp preserved lemon juice to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
0.25 tsp ground coriander
a pinch of dried red hot pepper flakes

How to prepare

If using uncracked whole, lightly crush with the flat side of a large knife on a cutting board.
In a large bowl, cover with cold water and soak for 4 hours to remove excess salt.
Drain well.
In a bowl, stir together the remaining ingredients and marinate, covered and chilled, for at least 6 hours or overnight.
It may be prepared 1 week ahead and kept chilled, covered.
Serve at room temperature.

Variations

Add chopped garlic or shallots for extra flavor.
Substitute fresh parsley or dill for the mint and coriander.
Add a splash of white wine vinegar for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak the olives in cold water for at least 4 hours to remove excess salt and bitterness.

- Marinate the olives with the herbs and lemon for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Serve the dish at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon as an appetizer or snack with crusty bread or crackers. It also pairs well with cheese and charcuterie.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the olives with the herbs and lemon for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use black olives instead of green olives for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute preserved lemon with fresh lemon zest for a similar citrusy flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared up to 1 week ahead and kept chilled, covered. Serve at room temperature.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing and flavorful combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Serve at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon contains approximately 80 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon contains approximately 7 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains olives and olive oil, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon is a flavorful dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of healthy fats and vitamins.

Summary

Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. The combination of brine-cured olives, fresh herbs, and preserved lemon creates a unique and tangy flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon. It was a hot summer day, much like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little kitchen in the countryside. Maria was known for her delicious Mediterranean dishes, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.

As we sat at her kitchen table sipping on some freshly brewed mint tea, Maria suddenly pulled out a dusty old cookbook from her shelf. She flipped through the pages with a mischievous grin on her face, knowing that she had stumbled upon a gem of a recipe. "Ah ha! Here it is," she exclaimed, pointing to the page with the cracked green olives recipe.

I was intrigued by the unique combination of flavors and ingredients. The tangy brine of the olives, the fragrant herbs, and the zesty preserved lemon all came together in perfect harmony. Maria explained that this recipe was a traditional dish from her grandmother's village in Greece, passed down through generations.

She handed me a pen and a piece of paper, urging me to write down the ingredients and instructions. I eagerly jotted down every detail, making sure not to miss a single step. Maria guided me through the process, showing me how to crack the olives just right, so they would absorb the flavors of the herbs and lemon.

We spent the afternoon in her cozy kitchen, laughing and chatting as we prepared the dish. The aroma of the herbs and lemon filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Finally, after hours of simmering and marinating, the Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon were ready.

I took a bite of the olive, savoring the burst of flavors in my mouth. The briny tang of the olive was perfectly balanced by the aromatic herbs and the citrusy kick of the preserved lemon. It was a taste sensation like no other, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who always ask for the recipe after tasting it. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Maria's kitchen, where I first learned the magic of Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon.

The recipe has become a symbol of friendship and tradition for me, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing food with loved ones. I am grateful to Maria for introducing me to this wonderful dish, and I cherish the memories of our time spent cooking together.

As I sit in my own kitchen now, preparing a fresh batch of Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon, I can't help but smile at the thought of passing this recipe down to future generations. Just like Maria did for me, I will share the magic of this dish with my children and grandchildren, ensuring that it remains a beloved tradition in our family for years to come.