Save to Pinterest A vibrant and festive appetizer featuring a medley of marinated olives and creamy feta cubes, perfect for entertaining and holiday gatherings.
I love serving this mix at holiday parties because it’s both colorful and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- Olives & Cheese: 1½ cups mixed olives (green and black, pitted) , 200 g feta cheese, cut into 1 cm cubes
- Marinade: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil , 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed) , 1 tsp dried oregano , 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional) , 1 small garlic clove, thinly sliced , ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) , Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped , Zest of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, combine the mixed olives and feta cubes.
- Step 2:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme (if using), garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Step 3:
- Pour the marinade over the olives and feta. Gently toss to coat evenly, being careful not to break up the feta.
- Step 4:
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Step 5:
- Before serving, bring to room temperature. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and lemon zest. Toss gently and serve.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings my family together and adds a festive touch to our gatherings.
Notes
Try adding strips of roasted red pepper or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor. Serve with crusty bread or as part of a mezze platter. Substitute feta with marinated goat cheese if preferred.
Required Tools
Medium mixing bowl , Small bowl , Whisk or fork , Sharp knife , Cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180 , Total Fat: 15 g , Carbohydrates: 3 g , Protein: 6 g
Save to Pinterest This tasty holiday mix is a quick and easy addition that never fails to impress your guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of olives work best in this mix?
A combination of pitted green and black olives offers the best balance of flavor and texture in this mix.
- → Can I prepare the mix ahead of time?
Yes, allowing the olives and feta to marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 4 hours enhances the flavors.
- → What herbs are included in the marinade?
The marinade features dried oregano and optional fresh thyme leaves, adding aromatic depth.
- → How should this mix be served?
Bring the mixture to room temperature before serving, then garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest for added brightness.
- → Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Yes, marinated goat cheese can be used as a creamy alternative to feta in the mix.