The combination of Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh creates an exquisite appetizer that bursts with flavor and freshness. These marinated olives, infused with a zesty citrus blend and aromatic herbs, are complemented perfectly by the creamy, tangy labneh. The vibrant flavors make this dish ideal for a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, and it appeals to a wide audience, including families and entertaining guests. The standout qualities of this dish lie in its versatility and the balance of flavors, offering a unique yet approachable taste experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe for Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh stands out for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the taste is simply unforgettable. The briny olives are transformed by the addition of citrus zest and various herbs, creating a medley of flavors that tantalizes the palate. The labneh, with its velvety texture, adds a delightful creaminess that perfectly balances the salty notes of the olives.

Secondly, the ease of preparation makes this dish a favorite among home cooks. The marinating process requires minimal effort and time, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully with little fuss. This means you can whip up a batch before guests arrive or pack it in a picnic basket without stress.

Lastly, the versatility of this dish is remarkable. Whether served as a standalone appetizer, a part of a mezze platter, or a vibrant addition to salads, Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh can adapt to any meal or occasion. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser that can cater to various tastes, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Ingredients to make The recipe :

To create Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh, you will need the following ingredients:

Olives (mixed varieties) : A combination of green and black olives (about 2 cups) works best to create a rich flavor profile. Choose high-quality olives, preferably from a jar or deli that offers a variety of textures, such as Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or green olives. Each type provides a unique taste and contributes to the overall complexity of the dish.

Fresh herbs : Use a mix of fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, and oregano (about 1/4 cup total, finely chopped). Fresh herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant pop of color to the dish. Their aromatic qualities will infuse the olives with a fresh, herbaceous essence.
Citrus zest (lemon and orange) : The zest of one lemon and one orange will elevate the olives with bright, citrusy notes. This addition brings out the natural sweetness of the olives while balancing their brininess, creating a delightful contrast.
Garlic : Two cloves of minced garlic add depth and richness to the marinade. Garlic not only complements the olives but also infuses the entire dish with a warm, pungent flavor that ties all ingredients together.

Olive oil : About 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil is essential for marinating the olives. This ingredient not only helps preserve the olives but also enhances their flavor, allowing the herbs and citrus to penetrate deeply.
Salt and pepper : To taste, these common seasonings will enhance the overall flavor of the olives. The right balance of salt and pepper will ensure that the dish is well-seasoned without overpowering the natural flavors.
Labneh : Prepare about 1 cup of labneh. This creamy, strained yogurt can be homemade or store-bought. Labneh provides a tangy, rich base that contrasts beautifully with the marinated olives and adds a delightful creaminess to every bite.

Olive oil drizzle : A final drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the labneh before serving adds visual appeal and richness. This finishing touch elevates the dish and ties together the flavors.

How to Make Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh ?

To prepare Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh, follow these detailed steps for a successful outcome:

Start by selecting your olives. Choose a mix of green and black olives for a diverse flavor profile. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess brine, then pat them dry with a paper towel.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the rinsed olives with finely chopped fresh herbs. Use a combination of parsley, thyme, and oregano for a well-rounded flavor. The herbs should be evenly distributed among the olives.
Next, add the zest of one lemon and one orange to the olive mixture. Be sure to avoid the bitter white pith and focus on just the colorful outer layer. This zest will provide a bright, citrusy aroma that permeates the olives.
In the same bowl, incorporate the minced garlic. Mix well, ensuring the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the olives and herbs. The garlic will infuse the olives with a warm, aromatic flavor as they marinate.

Drizzle about 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil over the olive mixture. The oil should generously coat the olives, helping to carry the flavors of the herbs and citrus. Toss everything together gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the olives may already be salty, so start with a small amount and adjust accordingly. The goal is to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the olives to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but for best results, let them sit overnight. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

While the olives are marinating, prepare the labneh. If making homemade labneh, place 1 cup of plain yogurt in a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer set over a bowl. Allow it to drain in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight until thick and creamy.
Once the labneh is ready, transfer it to a serving dish. Use the back of a spoon to create a slight well in the center, which will hold the olives and their marinade.
After the marinating time has passed, remove the olives from the refrigerator. Give them a gentle stir to redistribute the marinade and herbs before spooning them over the labneh.

Finally, finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top of the marinated olives and labneh. This adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavors.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This dish can be enjoyed with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or on its own as a flavorful appetizer.

Tips for Variations:

When preparing Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh, consider experimenting with these creative variations to enhance flavor, texture, and presentation:

For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or slices of fresh chili peppers to the olive mixture. This addition will introduce a delightful heat that complements the briny olives and bright citrus.
Incorporate additional flavor elements by including spices such as cumin or coriander. These warm spices can add depth and complexity to the marinade, enhancing the overall taste.
Experiment with different types of citrus. Instead of just lemon and orange zest, consider adding lime or grapefruit zest for a unique twist. Each citrus variety brings its own flavor profile, allowing for customization.

Add nuts, such as toasted almonds or pine nuts, to the olive mixture for added texture. The crunch of the nuts offers a wonderful contrast to the softness of the olives and labneh.
For a more robust flavor, try marinating the olives with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. These additions can introduce sweetness and smokiness, creating a more complex dish.
Try different types of olives based on your preference or seasonal availability. Varieties like green Castelvetrano or spicy Gaeta olives can provide unique tastes and textures that elevate the dish.

Incorporate fresh seasonal herbs like basil or dill for a refreshing twist. These herbs can brighten the dish and offer a new dimension of flavor alongside the citrus.
For a creamy alternative, try using Greek yogurt instead of labneh. This will still provide a rich texture while offering a slightly different taste experience.
For an elegant presentation, serve the olives and labneh in individual small bowls, garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. This can add a touch of sophistication to any gathering.

Finally, consider serving the marinated olives warm. Gently heat the olives in a skillet before serving to enhance the flavors and aromas, providing a comforting option for cooler days.

Serving Suggestions:

To enjoy Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh, consider these serving suggestions that optimize flavor and presentation:

Serve the marinated olives alongside warm pita bread or crusty baguette slices. This allows guests to scoop up the olives and creamy labneh, creating a delightful combination of flavors.

Present the dish as part of a mezze platter, accompanied by other Middle Eastern favorites such as hummus, tabbouleh, and roasted vegetables. This provides a colorful and varied spread for any gathering.
For a refreshing summer lunch, pair the olives and labneh with a crisp salad, incorporating ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese. This combination offers a light yet satisfying meal.
During Ramadan, serve this dish as a nourishing iftar option. The olives provide healthy fats, while the labneh offers protein, making it a wholesome choice to break your fast.

Store the marinated olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or as a quick snack throughout the week.
Consider drizzling the labneh with additional olive oil and sprinkling with za’atar or sumac before serving. This adds a touch of flair and enhances the flavors even further.
For a festive touch, garnish the olives with pomegranate seeds or fresh herbs right before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also a pop of freshness.

Enjoy the marinated olives and labneh at room temperature for the best flavor. Allowing the dish to sit out for a few minutes before serving helps to enhance the taste.
Pair this dish with a refreshing beverage like mint lemonade or herbal tea to complement the flavors of the olives and labneh.
Finally, consider using the olive marinade as a dressing for grilled vegetables or grains. This makes for a delicious way to repurpose any leftovers.

FAQ:

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to develop, making them even more delicious over time. Just be sure to keep the olives submerged in their marinade to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze this recipe?

While it is not recommended to freeze Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh due to potential changes in texture and flavor, you can freeze the marinated olives alone. However, the labneh should be consumed fresh, as freezing may alter its creamy consistency.

Can I use different types of olives?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any varieties of olives you prefer for the Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh. Each type will bring its unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking.

How long should I marinate the olives?

For the best flavor, it is recommended to marinate the olives for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. This extended marinating time allows the herbs and citrus to infuse deeply into the olives, enhancing their overall taste.

Can I make labneh from scratch?

Yes, making labneh from scratch is quite simple. Just strain plain yogurt through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer for several hours or overnight until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency. This homemade labneh is perfect for the Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Simple Homemade Labneh.