Olive Marinade

Olive Marinade Recipe - Vegetarian Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Olive marinade is a flavorful and versatile condiment that can be used to enhance the taste of various dishes. This marinade is made with a combination of olives, olive oil, herbs, garlic, vinegar, and spices, creating a rich and tangy flavor profile.

History

The use of olives in marinades dates back to ancient times, where they were used to preserve and flavor meats and vegetables. The combination of olives and olive oil has long been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its health benefits and delicious taste.

Ingredients

6 oz (170 g) of canned, black pitted olives, drained and chopped if desired
0.25 cup of olive oil
2 tbsp of chopped oregano and basil or 5 tbsp of italian seasoning
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tbsp of balsamic vinegar
0.5 tsp of red pepper flakes
0.25 tsp of salt

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients in a container with a tight-fitting lid.
Cover the container and shake it well to coat the ingredients.
Pour, spoon, or funnel the contents into a fresh container.
Refrigerate for 2 hours, then serve at room temperature.

Variations

Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor.
Mix in some capers or anchovies for a briny kick.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or paprika.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use high-quality olives and olive oil for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt to suit your taste preferences.

- Marinate meats, vegetables, or even tofu in this olive marinade for a delicious and savory dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this olive marinade as a topping for grilled meats, salads, or sandwiches. It can also be used as a dip for bread or vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

This olive marinade is best made by simply combining all the ingredients in a container and shaking well to mix. No cooking is required, making it a quick and easy recipe to prepare.

Ingredient Substitutions

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

- Substitute white wine vinegar or lemon juice for the balsamic vinegar.

- Use dried herbs instead of fresh if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

This olive marinade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the olive marinade in a small dish or bowl, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. It can also be served in a jar or container for a rustic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This olive marinade pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, pasta dishes, or as a topping for bruschetta. It also complements cheese boards and antipasto platters.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover olive marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving, or reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 140

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 2g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 0g

Fats

Total Fat: 14g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 0g

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 2%

Iron: 2%

Vitamin C: 0%

Vitamin A: 0%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This olive marinade is low in carbohydrates and protein, but high in healthy fats. It also contains some essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your meals.

Summary

Olive marinade is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds flavor to a variety of dishes. With its combination of olives, olive oil, herbs, and spices, this marinade is a must-have for any food lover looking to elevate their meals.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was at a small Italian restaurant in the heart of Tuscany, where the aroma of garlic and basil filled the air. I watched as the chef meticulously prepared the marinade, his hands moving with precision and care. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself.

I approached the chef after my meal and asked him for the recipe. He smiled warmly and nodded, knowing that I was a fellow food enthusiast. He invited me into his kitchen and showed me how to make the marinade step by step. I watched in awe as he blended olives, garlic, basil, and olive oil together, creating a rich and flavorful mixture that would elevate any dish.

As I left the restaurant that evening, I felt a sense of excitement and determination. I couldn't wait to try making the marinade at home and share it with my friends and family. Little did I know that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have refined the recipe and added my own twist to it. I have experimented with different types of olives and herbs, always striving to create the perfect balance of flavors. Each time I make the marinade, I am transported back to that small Italian restaurant in Tuscany, where my love for cooking was born.

One of my favorite memories of making the olive marinade was when my granddaughter, Emma, came to visit. She had always shown an interest in cooking, and I knew that this recipe would be the perfect introduction for her. We spent an afternoon in the kitchen together, chopping garlic, tearing basil leaves, and blending the ingredients into a fragrant paste.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Emma's eyes lit up with excitement. She took a bite of the dish and exclaimed, "This is delicious, Grandma! Can you teach me how to make this marinade?" I smiled proudly and nodded, knowing that I had passed down a piece of my culinary heritage to the next generation.

The olive marinade has become a family favorite, requested at every gathering and celebration. It's amazing to think that a simple recipe I learned from a chef in Tuscany has brought so much joy and connection to my loved ones. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my love and creativity, and the olive marinade is a perfect example of that.

As I grow older, I find comfort in knowing that the recipes I have collected and created over the years will live on through my family. I hope that one day, Emma will pass down the olive marinade recipe to her own children, sharing the story of how her grandmother learned to make it in a small Italian restaurant in Tuscany.

In the meantime, I will continue to cherish the memories and moments spent in the kitchen, creating delicious meals for my loved ones. The olive marinade will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of where my culinary journey began and the joy it has brought me along the way. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also the soul, and I am grateful for the gift of sharing that with my family.