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Olives platter

olives platter

Olives platter brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors, perfect for entertaining or a quick snack. Easy, colorful and delicious!
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Total Time 16 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup green olives pitted, drained
  • 1 cup black olives pitted, drained
  • 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil good quality for drizzling
  • 2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest freshly grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
  • 0.5 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 0.25 cup almonds toasted, unsalted
  • 0.25 cup feta cheese crumbled, optional

Method
 

  1. Arrange the green and black olives on a large serving platter.
  2. Scatter the cherry tomatoes, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta cheese (if using) around the olives.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Drizzle the herb and citrus olive oil over everything on the platter, making sure all the olives are coated.
  5. Gently toss or shake the platter to combine and distribute the dressing.
  6. Let the platter sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature for the flavors to meld before serving.
  7. Serve with crusty bread for dipping, if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

Whether you're hosting an elegant dinner party or preparing a relaxed family gathering, a versatile olives platter always shines as a crowd-pleaser. This Mediterranean-inspired dish not only brings vibrant colors to your table but also offers an irresistible mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

Expert tips for the best olives platter

  • Choose high-quality olives: Select a diverse mix—like Castelvetrano, Kalamata, and Spanish green olives—for visual appeal and balanced taste. Rinse brined olives to remove excess salt before dressing them.
  • Customize the add-ons: Substitute almonds with toasted walnuts or pistachios for a different crunch, or swap feta cheese with marinated goat cheese for a creamy bite.
  • Boost the flavor: Marinate the olives overnight in the citrus-herb oil for an even more pronounced aroma and tang. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving so the oil remains lush.

Preparation tips & advanced techniques

  • Mince your herbs freshly just before adding, as this releases natural oils and brightens the platter.
  • Add a hint of garlic—a smashed clove in the dressing delivers an added Mediterranean depth, but remove it before serving for a mild kick.
  • Mix gently to keep the olives intact and maintain visual appeal. Avoid over-stirring, especially if using soft cheese.

Pairing and serving suggestions

  • Serve with rustic breads, artisanal crackers, or thin crostini to soak up the zesty marinade.
  • Complement fresh salads, cured meats, and cheeses for a complete antipasto spread.
  • For a colorful twist, add grilled artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers, or toss in orange segments for a sweet, citrusy note.
Ultimately, an olives platter is limited only by your imagination. Experiment with new combinations, seasonal ingredients, and favorite flavors—it's an appetizer that's endlessly adaptable to your taste and occasion!