Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives: A Savory Appetizer That Stands Out

Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives are the ultimate combination of savory, crunchy, and tangy flavors, making them a standout appetizer for any occasion. The stuffed olives are filled with toasted almonds and marinated in a blend of vinegar, red wine, and aromatic herbs. This easy yet sophisticated dish offers an incredible depth of flavor that will surely wow your guests.

For more creative olive-based appetizers, check out Olive Garden’s Mediterranean Appetizer Recipes or explore more olive-centric dishes at Food Network’s Guide to Olives.

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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

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Instructions:

1. Toast the Almonds:

Start by toasting the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Toast them until golden brown and fragrant. This step adds depth to the flavor of the almonds. Once toasted, remove from the heat and set aside to cool.

2. Stuff the Olives:

After the almonds cool down, gently stuff each pitted ripe olive with one toasted almond. Be sure not to press too hard, as you don’t want to split the olives.

3. Prepare the Marinade:

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the white balsamic vinegar, dry red wine, and canola oil. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. To this base, add minced garlic, sugar, oregano, pepper, dill weed, dried basil, and parsley flakes. Stir until the spices are fully integrated.

4. Marinate the Olives:

Place the stuffed olives in a large, airtight glass jar or container. Pour the prepared marinade over the olives, ensuring that they are fully submerged. Seal the container tightly and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, preferably up to 48 hours. This will allow the olives to fully absorb the flavors of the marinade.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

After marinating, your Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives are ready to serve! Serve them chilled or at room temperature as a standalone appetizer, or as part of an antipasto platter alongside other Mediterranean delights like cheese, charcuterie, and fresh bread.

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Advanced Techniques for Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives

While the basic recipe is simple, you can enhance the flavor and presentation of your Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives by using a few advanced techniques.

1. Infuse More Flavors:

The marinade can easily be adapted to add more layers of flavor. Try adding fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme, which will infuse the olives with an aromatic, woodsy note. For a spicy version, add a few red chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies to the marinade for a little heat.

2. Use Fresh Olives for Better Texture:

Fresh, high-quality olives make a significant difference in texture and flavor. Look for olives from Mediterranean regions such as Greece, Spain, or Italy. If you’re using store-bought jarred olives, try to get those packed in brine or oil for the best flavor.

3. Experiment with Different Fillings:

Though almonds are the traditional stuffing in this recipe, you can try different fillings to create a personalized twist. Goat cheese, blue cheese, or roasted red peppers are excellent alternatives to almonds. These variations will offer a different texture and flavor, making the olives unique to your taste.

4. Control the Marinade’s Strength:

The longer you let the olives marinate, the more intense the flavors become. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can allow them to marinate for a shorter period. Alternatively, a longer marinating time (up to 48 hours) will provide a more robust flavor profile.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

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Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

If you’re making a large batch of Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain freshness.

1. How to Store the Olives:

• After marinating, store the olives in an airtight container or jar and keep them in the refrigerator. The vinegar and oil-based marinade will help preserve the olives and maintain their flavor. Make sure the olives are fully submerged in the marinade to prevent them from drying out.

2. How Long Do They Last?

• Marinated olives will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. However, for the best taste and texture, consume them within the first week of marinating. The longer they sit, the stronger the flavor gets, so if you prefer a more subtle taste, it’s best to enjoy them earlier.

3. Can You Freeze Marinated Olives?

• Freezing marinated olives is not recommended as the texture may be compromised after thawing. However, you can freeze the marinade itself and reuse it for a fresh batch of olives at a later time. Be sure to let the marinade thaw completely before using.

4. How to Keep the Olives Fresh:

• Always check that the olives are submerged in the marinade. If needed, you can add more olive oil or vinegar to maintain coverage. This will ensure the olives stay flavorful and don’t dry out or lose their quality.

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Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

This recipe is quite versatile and can be adapted to various dietary needs and preferences. Here are some ways to modify the recipe:

1. Low-Sodium Version:

• To make a low-sodium version of this recipe, opt for unsalted olives. Additionally, reduce the amount of salt added to the marinade or omit it entirely, as the olives will still retain their natural saltiness.

2. Vegan and Dairy-Free:

• This recipe is already vegan, as it doesn’t contain any animal products. The olives are naturally plant-based, and the filling (almonds) makes it suitable for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet.

3. Nut-Free Option:

• For those with nut allergies, simply omit the almonds and stuff the olives with other ingredients like vegan cheese, roasted red peppers, or even small cubes of cucumber. These substitutions will provide different textures while keeping the olives delicious.

4. Gluten-Free Version:

• This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as there are no wheat-based ingredients used. It’s a perfect addition to any gluten-free appetizer spread.

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FAQs About Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives

1. What are the best olives to use for this recipe?

• You can use both ripe green olives and black olives for this recipe. However, the flavor of the olives will change depending on the variety. For a more robust taste, go for Kalamata olives or Castelvetrano olives.

2. Can I make the olives in advance?

• Yes! These marinated olives taste even better the longer they marinate. You can prepare them 24-48 hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

3. How should I serve marinated olives?

• Marinated olives are best served chilled or at room temperature. They can be served as part of an antipasto platter, alongside cheeses, meats, crackers, and fresh bread. They also pair well with wine.

4. Can I use other types of nuts instead of almonds?

• Yes, feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or even pine nuts. Each nut will add its own distinct flavor to the dish.

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Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives offer a delightful burst of flavor with every bite, making them the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a gathering, or just craving a savory snack, these olives are sure to be a crowd favorite. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that feels gourmet and will impress your guests.

So go ahead and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!