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Ricette di Sicilia

Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane


Marinated Sicilian Olives: A Delightful Starter with Mediterranean Flair

Marinated Sicilian Olives: A Delightful Starter with Mediterranean Flair

Master the art of making marinated olives, a classic Sicilian starter bursting with vibrant flavours—perfect for any meal or occasion.

⏱️
Prep Time
about 15 minutes
🔥
Cook Time
no cooking needed
👥
Serve
Serves 4
📊
Difficulty
easy
💰 budget-friendly
🗓️ all year round
4.6/5

🛒 Ingredients

  • 600g pitted green olives
  • grated orange zest
  • grated lemon zest
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • freshly ground black pepper

📊 Nutritional Information

Calories
250 kcal
Protein
2 g
Fat
25 g
Carbohydrates
5 g
Fiber
4 g
Sugars
1 g
Sodium
500 mg

Marinated olives, known in Sicily as alivi cunzati, are a true celebration of the island's rich culinary heritage. This traditional dish captures the essence of Sicilian soil, where olives stand as a symbol of bounty and taste. Bathed in extra virgin olive oil with zests of citrus fruits, these olives release an unmistakable aroma that calls to mind the sun-drenched countryside of Sicily. Ideal as a starter, marinated olives can be enjoyed all year round but are especially cherished during the warmer months, when their fresh, lively flavours make the perfect prelude to a summer feast.

👨‍🍳 Preparation

  1. 1

    Place the olives in a large glass jar.

  2. 2

    Add the grated orange and lemon zest.

  3. 3

    Pour over plenty of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.

  4. 4

    Seal the jar and leave to infuse for twelve hours.

  5. 5

    Serve in a bowl as a delicious starter.

💡 Tips and Variations

For an extra zing, try adding some chopped fresh chilli for a gentle heat or herbs like rosemary and thyme to deepen the aroma.

📦 Storage

  • Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • You can freeze marinated olives in an airtight container for up to a month.
  • Bring to room temperature before serving to really bring out the flavours.

🍷 Pairing

Marinated olives are a dream match with a glass of Contea di Sclafani Nero d’Avola—a full-bodied, dry wine that beautifully complements the bright citrus notes.

Give these marinated Sicilian olives a go at home—you’ll find they’re wonderfully simple yet endlessly satisfying. They’re perfect for sharing with loved ones, whether at a relaxed supper or a lively gathering. Dive into a little taste of Sicily, and don’t forget to pass around the jar—good food always brings people closer together.

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