Looking for a quick yet impressive dish? Olives and Cheese is the perfect solution! This delightful combination is not only simple to assemble but also bursting with flavor. Ideal for a last-minute appetizer or a snack while entertaining guests, Olives and Cheese can be adapted to suit your taste and available ingredients.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 4 grams
Carbohydrates: 6 grams
Fat: 16 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 400 mg
Why Make Olives and Cheese
Olives and Cheese is a splendid choice for anyone seeking a healthy yet delicious dish. The combination of feta cheese with pitted green and kalamata olives offers a delightful medley of flavors. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Olives are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, while feta provides a source of protein and calcium. This dish is also incredibly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite ingredients or seasonal produce.
How to Make Olives and Cheese Step by Step
Ingredients
- 8 ounces feta cheese, sliced or cubed
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine the green and kalamata olives with red bell pepper, garlic, parsley, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and oregano. Arrange sliced or cubed feta cheese around the edge of a serving platter. Spoon the olive mixture into the center of the cheese ring. Drizzle remaining marinade over the cheese and garnish with extra herbs if desired. Let sit at room temperature for 15–30 minutes before serving. Serve with bread, crackers, or alongside other Mediterranean dishes.
How to Serve Olives and Cheese
For an exquisite presentation, serve Olives and Cheese with a selection of crusty bread or artisan crackers. Pair it with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. You can also complement it with marinated vegetables or a side of hummus to enhance that Mediterranean flair.
How to Store Olives and Cheese
If you have leftovers, you can store Olives and Cheese in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep any remaining olive mixture and feta in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat if you prefer it warm, but it’s just as delightful served cold. For longer storage, while not ideal for this dish, you could freeze the prepared olive mixture, though it may alter the texture of the feta.
Expert Tips for Cooking Olives and Cheese
- Use a variety of olives for a more complex flavor profile; consider adding some spicy pepperoncini.
- For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the feta in olive oil with herbs and lemon zest before serving.
- Add roasted nuts for crunch and extra protein.
- Use mixed color bell peppers for a more vibrant presentation.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as feta can vary in saltiness.
Delicious Variations of Olives and Cheese
For those looking to mix it up, try adding a spicy kick with some diced jalapeños for a zesty variant. You can also create a herbed version by incorporating fresh basil and thyme. A citrusy addition of orange or lemon zest can brighten the flavors, while a vegetarian option using plant-based cheese can cater to different dietary preferences.
If you haven’t tried Olives and Cheese yet, now is the time! Its lovely medley of flavors and textures makes it a pleasure to serve and share. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and it’s bound to impress your guests with its delightful taste and lovely presentation. Enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean flavors today!
Olives and Cheese
Ingredients
Cheese and Olives
- 8 ounces feta cheese, sliced or cubed Can be marinated for added flavor.
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted Use a variety for complex flavors.
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted Use a variety for complex flavors.
Fresh Ingredients
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced Mixed color bell peppers can be used for vibrancy.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Can garnish with extra herbs.
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra can be used for marinating feta.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the green and kalamata olives with red bell pepper, garlic, parsley, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and oregano.
- Arrange sliced or cubed feta cheese around the edge of a serving platter.
- Spoon the olive mixture into the center of the cheese ring.
- Drizzle remaining marinade over the cheese and garnish with extra herbs if desired.
- Let sit at room temperature for 15–30 minutes before serving.
