Name: Cured Olives Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Total time: 361 h
Yield: 32
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 lbs fresh ripe olives; 10 cups water; 4 tbsp kosher salt; 2 lemons; 1 cup olive oil; 2 hot chile peppers

Curing olives at home is a timeless tradition that brings the rich, tangy flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. This recipe will guide you through the simple steps to transform fresh olives into a delectable treat perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Cured Olives Recipe

When gathering your ingredients, note that fresh, ripe olives and kosher salt might not be everyday pantry items. You may need to visit a specialty store or a well-stocked supermarket. Additionally, ensure you have olive oil, lemons, and hot chile peppers for the curing process.

Ingredients For Cured Olives Recipe

fresh ripe olives: These are the star of the show, preferably sourced from a farmers market or specialty store.

water: Used for soaking the olives and preparing the brine.

kosher salt: Essential for creating the curing brine, kosher salt is preferred for its purity and large crystals.

lemons: Adds a touch of acidity and a subtle flavor to the olives.

olive oil: Seals the jars and adds a rich, fruity flavor to the olives.

hot chile peppers: Infuses a hint of heat and complexity to the cured olives.

One reader, Corrine Salgado says:

This cured olives recipe is fantastic! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the hint of heat from the chile peppers is just right. The process was simple, and the result was delicious. Highly recommend for any olive lover!

Corrine Salgado

Techniques Required for Curing Olives

How to sterilize jars: Ensure jars are clean and free from bacteria by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or using a dishwasher with a sterilize setting. How to make a small slit in olives: Use a sharp knife to make a small cut in each olive to help the brine penetrate. How to slice chile peppers into rings: Cut the chile peppers crosswise into thin rings using a sharp knife. How to dissolve salt in water: Stir the salt into the water until it is completely dissolved to create a brine solution.

How To Make Cured Olives

Here’s a simple cured olives recipe that you can easily whip up. Soaked olives are brined with hot chile peppers and lemon for added punch.

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking:

Additional Time: 15 days

Total: 15 days 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

4lbsfresh ripe olives
10cupswater
4tbspkosher salt
2lemons,sliced
1cupolive oil
2hot chile peppers

Instructions

Rinse olives and soak overnight in cold water. Drain, and make a small slit in each olive, or smash them slightly.
Pack the olives into sterile pint jars. Slice chile peppers into rings, and place 1 into each jar. Place 1 lemon slice into each jar.
Stir together the water and salt until salt is completely dissolved. Pour over the olives in the jar, leaving about ½-inch of space at the top. Pour olive oil into the jars to within ¼-inch of the top. Cover with lids and seal.
Let the olives cure in the refrigerator for 2 weeks before tasting. If the olives are bitter, let them cure for another week.
Use as desired and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 127.05kcal
Fat: 12.83g
Saturated Fat: 1.74g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.40g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.24g
Carbohydrates: 4.13g
Fiber: 1.96g
Sugar: 0.24g
Protein: 0.57g
Sodium: 420.16mg
Calcium: 53.52mg
Potassium: 18.66mg
Iron: 1.96mg
Vitamin A: 12.73µg
Vitamin C: 6.47mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Cured Olives

When making cured olives, ensure that you make a small slit or slightly smash each olive before packing them into jars. This allows the brine to penetrate the olives more effectively, speeding up the curing process and ensuring a more even flavor throughout.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cured Olives

Rinse efficiently: Use a large colander to rinse all olives at once, saving time compared to rinsing in batches.

Quick slitting: Line up several olives on a cutting board and make slits in them simultaneously with a sharp knife.

Simplify packing: Use a wide-mouth funnel to pack olives into jars quickly and without mess.

Pre-mix brine: Prepare the water and salt brine in a large pitcher for easy pouring into jars.

Batch slicing: Slice all chile peppers and lemons at once and set them aside, so you can add them to jars quickly.

Substitute Ingredients For Cured Olives Recipe

fresh ripe olives - Substitute with canned black olives: Canned black olives can be used as they are already processed and have a similar texture and flavor profile.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add an extra layer of flavor to the curing process.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a suitable alternative for curing.
lemons - Substitute with limes: Limes provide a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which can work well in the curing process.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and similar consistency, making it a good alternative for preserving the olives.
hot chile peppers - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can provide the same level of heat and spiciness as hot chile peppers.

Presenting Your Cured Olives Beautifully

Serve in elegant glass jars: Present the cured olives in small, clear glass jars to showcase their vibrant colors and textures. This adds a touch of sophistication and allows the diners to appreciate the visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top of the olives before sealing the jars. This not only enhances the aroma but also adds a pop of green, making the presentation more inviting.
Use artisanal labels: Attach handcrafted labels to each jar, detailing the curing process and ingredients. This adds a personal touch and elevates the overall dining experience.
Serve with gourmet accompaniments: Pair the cured olives with a selection of artisan breads, cheeses, and charcuterie. Arrange these on a wooden board for a rustic yet refined presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, around the jars. This adds a delicate and colorful element to the presentation, making it visually stunning.
Highlight the ingredients: Display the key ingredients used in the curing process, such as lemons, chile peppers, and a bottle of olive oil, alongside the jars. This educates the diners and adds an interactive element to the presentation.
Create a tasting experience: Offer a small tasting spoon or fork with each jar, allowing diners to sample the olives directly from the jar. This creates an intimate and engaging dining experience.
Use a tiered serving tray: Arrange the jars on a tiered serving tray to add height and dimension to the presentation. This makes the cured olives the focal point of the table and adds a touch of elegance.

Essential Tools for Making Cured Olives

Colander: Used to rinse and drain the olives before soaking them overnight.
Large bowl: Needed to soak the olives in cold water overnight.
Sharp knife: Essential for making small slits in each olive or smashing them slightly.
Sterile pint jars: Used to pack the olives for curing.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to slice the chile peppers and lemons.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the water and olive oil accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the kosher salt.
Mixing spoon: Needed to stir together the water and salt until the salt is completely dissolved.
Funnel: Helps to pour the brine and olive oil into the jars without spilling.
Lids and seals: Required to cover and seal the jars properly.
Refrigerator: Used to store the jars while the olives cure.

Storing and Freezing Cured Olives Properly

To store the cured olives, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Make sure the olives are always submerged in the olive oil and brine mixture to prevent them from drying out or spoiling.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cured olives. Transfer the olives and their brine to a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 6 months.
When ready to use the frozen olives, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, the olives may be slightly softer in texture compared to freshly cured olives, but they will still retain their flavor.
If you plan to consume the olives within a few weeks, you can also store them in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar. However, keep in mind that the shelf life will be shorter compared to refrigerated or frozen olives.
To maintain the best quality and flavor of the cured olives, always use clean utensils when handling them and avoid introducing any moisture or contaminants into the jar.

Fascinating Facts About Cured Olives

A fascinating aspect of this cured olives recipe is that the olive oil not only adds flavor but also acts as a sealant, preventing air from spoiling the olives during the curing process.

Is Making Cured Olives at Home Cost-Effective?

This cured olives recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like fresh ripe olives, kosher salt, and water are inexpensive. Specialty items such as olive oil and hot chile peppers add a bit to the cost but are used in small quantities. The lemons are also affordable. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. Considering the flavor and uniqueness, the overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10.

Are Cured Olives Healthy or Unhealthy?

The cured olives recipe is relatively healthy, as it primarily consists of whole, natural ingredients. Olives are a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. The recipe also includes lemons, which are rich in vitamin C and can aid in digestion. However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be modified to make it even healthier:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues if consumed in excess. Reducing the salt content or using a low-sodium alternative could make the recipe more heart-friendly.
While olive oil is a healthy fat, the recipe uses a substantial amount, which can increase the calorie content of the dish. Using less olive oil or substituting a portion with a lower-calorie liquid like lemon juice could help reduce the overall calorie count without compromising flavor.
The inclusion of hot chile peppers can add a kick of flavor and potentially boost metabolism, but they may not be suitable for those with sensitive digestive systems or low spice tolerance.

To further enhance the nutritional value of the cured olives, consider the following suggestions:

Add a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic, rosemary, or thyme, to provide additional antioxidants and flavor without increasing the calorie content.
Experiment with different types of olives, such as Kalamata or Castelvetrano, to introduce a range of nutrients and taste profiles.
Serve the cured olives alongside a selection of fresh, raw vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to increase the fiber and vitamin content of the snack or appetizer.

Editor's Opinion on This Cured Olives Recipe

This recipe for cured olives is straightforward and accessible, making it ideal for home cooks. The combination of lemons and chile peppers adds a delightful complexity to the olives, while the olive oil ensures a rich, smooth finish. The curing process in the refrigerator is simple, though it requires patience. The result is a flavorful, versatile ingredient that can elevate many dishes. However, consider experimenting with additional herbs or spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Overall, it's a solid foundation for delicious homemade cured olives.

Enhance Your Cured Olives Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Lamb Skewers: Imagine pairing these cured olives with succulent grilled lamb skewers. The smoky, charred flavor of the lamb complements the briny, tangy taste of the olives, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Serve your cured olives alongside a creamy, vibrant roasted red pepper hummus. The sweet and smoky notes of the red peppers meld beautifully with the rich, salty olives, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavors.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Elevate your appetizer game by pairing the cured olives with stuffed grape leaves. The tender grape leaves filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices offer a perfect contrast to the firm, flavorful olives.

Feta and Watermelon Salad: Create a refreshing and unexpected combination by serving the cured olives with a feta and watermelon salad. The juicy sweetness of the watermelon and the creamy saltiness of the feta cheese make a delightful pairing with the robust olives.

Garlic and Herb Flatbread: Complement your cured olives with warm, aromatic garlic and herb flatbread. The soft, chewy flatbread infused with garlic and herbs provides a perfect vessel for scooping up the olives, enhancing their savory goodness.

Delicious Alternatives to Cured Olives

Marinated Artichoke Hearts: Transform your artichokes into a delightful appetizer by marinating them in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for adding a gourmet touch to your antipasto platter.

Spicy Pickled Carrots: Add a kick to your carrots with this spicy pickling recipe. Infused with vinegar, chile peppers, and garlic, these pickled carrots are a zesty addition to any snack table.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Blend roasted red peppers with chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice to create a creamy and flavorful hummus. Serve with pita bread or vegetable sticks for a healthy appetizer.

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Roll grape leaves around a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. These Mediterranean delights are perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer.

Garlic Herb Marinated Olives: Enhance your olives with a marinade of garlic, herbs, and lemon zest. This simple yet flavorful recipe is a great addition to any appetizer spread.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Cured Olives

Main Courses:

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers: Elevate your dinner with Mediterranean Chicken Skewers. Marinate chicken pieces in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Skewer the chicken with bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini. Grill until the chicken is perfectly charred and the vegetables are tender. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce and a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

Lemon Herb Salmon: Delight in the flavors of Lemon Herb Salmon. Season salmon fillets with a mixture of lemon zest, fresh dill, and parsley. Bake until the salmon is flaky and infused with citrusy goodness. Pair with roasted asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes for a satisfying and elegant main course. Drizzle with a lemon butter sauce to enhance the flavors.

Desserts:

Lemon Olive Oil Cake: Elevate your dessert game with a Lemon Olive Oil Cake. This delightful treat combines the zesty freshness of lemons with the rich, fruity notes of olive oil. The result is a moist, tender cake that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Top it with a simple lemon glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a dessert that is both sophisticated and comforting.

Spicy Chocolate Mousse: For a dessert with a kick, try a Spicy Chocolate Mousse. This luxurious treat blends the deep, rich flavors of dark chocolate with the subtle heat of chile peppers. The mousse is light and airy, yet intensely flavorful, making it a perfect end to any meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings for an added touch of elegance. Serve in individual ramekins or martini glasses to impress your guests with both taste and presentation.

Why trust this Cured Olives Recipe:

This recipe for cured olives is a tried-and-true method that guarantees delicious results. Using fresh, ripe olives and a simple brine of water and kosher salt, this process ensures the perfect balance of flavors. The addition of lemon and hot chile peppers adds a unique zest and heat, while the olive oil preserves the olives beautifully. Follow these steps for a homemade treat that rivals any store-bought version.

Share your thoughts and experiences with making your own cured olives in the Food Preservation forum section.

FAQ:

How long do the olives need to cure before they are ready to eat?

The olives need to cure in the refrigerator for at least 2 weeks before tasting. If they are still bitter after 2 weeks, let them cure for another week.

Can I use a different type of salt instead of kosher salt?

Yes, you can use sea salt or pickling salt as alternatives. Just make sure the salt is completely dissolved in the water before pouring it over the olives.

Do I have to refrigerate the olives while they cure?

Yes, it's important to keep the olives in the refrigerator while they cure to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat.

Can I add other spices or herbs to the jars?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding garlic, rosemary, or other herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your cured olives.

How long will the cured olives last once they are ready?

Once cured, the olives can last for several months in the refrigerator as long as they are kept in their brine and covered with olive oil. Just make sure to use a clean utensil when taking olives out to avoid contamination.