Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Homemade Labneh Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your appetizer game, you’ve got to try this Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Homemade Labneh Recipe. It perfectly balances bright citrus notes, aromatic herbs, and the creamy tang of labneh, creating a harmonious burst of flavors that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a sophisticated snack, this recipe is pure magic on a plate, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and the key to the vibrant taste and texture of this dish. Each element, from the olives’ briny pop to the labneh’s rich creaminess, plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and visual appeal.

• 2 cups Olives (mixed varieties): A blend of green and black olives gives complexity and color diversity that makes this dish pop.
• 1/4 cup Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, oregano): Finely chopped to infuse every bite with herbal freshness and aroma.
• 1 each Lemon zest: The zest brightens the dish with lively citrus notes that uplift the olives.
• 1 each Orange zest: Adds a subtle sweetness and additional citrus complexity that balances the savory.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced to introduce a sweet and pungent punch without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil: The base for marinating, it brings richness and helps meld all ingredients together.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhance and round out the medley of flavors perfectly.
• 1 cup Labneh: Homemade or store-bought, this creamy yogurt cheese adds luscious texture and tang.
• High-quality olive oil: For drizzling before serving, it adds a final fruity, silky finish.

How to Make Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Homemade Labneh Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Olives

Start by selecting your favorite mixed olives, ideally combining green and black for great texture contrast and flavor. Rinse them under cold water to wash away any excess brine, then pat them dry carefully—this ensures your marinade will soak in beautifully without becoming diluted.

Step 2: Combine with Fresh Herbs

In a medium bowl, toss the olives with the finely chopped parsley, thyme, and oregano. These herbs contribute a fragrant, rustic quality that brightens the dish and complements the citrus zest perfectly.

Step 3: Add Citrus Zest for Brightness

Grate the zest of one lemon and one orange directly into the olive and herb mixture. This citrusy burst wakes up your palate and gives the olives a fresh, zesty twist that’s simply addictive.

Step 4: Mix in Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic, distributing its rich, aromatic essence evenly throughout. Garlic balances the bright citrus notes with its warm, savory depth.

Step 5: Drizzle Olive Oil

Pour in about half a cup of extra virgin olive oil, gently tossing the mixture to coat each olive and herb with its golden richness. This step is crucial to marrying all the flavors and providing a luscious mouthfeel.

Step 6: Season and Marinate

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours, though marinating overnight is best to allow all the vibrant flavors to blend and intensify beautifully.

Step 7: Prepare the Labneh

If you’re making your own labneh, strain plain yogurt using a cheesecloth until it thickens into a creamy, spreadable texture. This tangy base is the soulmate to the citrus-herb olives and adds an irresistible silkiness.

Step 8: Arrange Labneh in Serving Dish

Spoon your freshly made or store-bought labneh into a shallow serving bowl and create a gentle well in the center. This makes a perfect cradle for the marinated olives and their flavorful juices.

Step 9: Spoon Olives on Labneh

Carefully transfer the marinated olives along with the marinade right into the well of the labneh, letting the briny, herby oils mingle with the creamy cheese for maximum taste.

Step 10: Final Drizzle

Finish with a generous drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top. This adds a beautiful sheen and an extra layer of rich, fruity flavor just before serving.

Step 11: Serve or Store

You can serve this dish immediately or refrigerate it until you’re ready. The flavors will only become more harmonious with time, making it an excellent make-ahead option for entertaining or enjoying later.

How to Serve Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Homemade Labneh Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme over the top for an extra burst of color and aroma. A few lemon or orange zest strips elegantly garnished on the side can brighten the plate and hint at the flavors within.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, crusty baguette slices, or crisp vegetable crudités for dipping. It also makes an incredible complement alongside charcuterie boards, grilled vegetables, or summery salads.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the labneh and marinated olives spread on a large wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs, nuts, and fruits to create an eye-catching, shareable appetizer platter. Alternatively, you can use small individual ramekins for a sophisticated look at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The olives and labneh will keep well for up to 4 days, with their flavors deepening as they rest. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the marinade.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe since the texture of both the labneh and olives can suffer when thawed, losing their fresh and creamy qualities.

Reheating

This recipe is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If desired, gently warm bread or side items rather than reheating the olives or labneh, to preserve their delightful textures and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought labneh for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought labneh works beautifully and saves time. Just be sure to pick a high-quality, creamy variety for the best results.

What types of olives work best?

A mix of green and black olives is ideal because it offers a balance of flavors and textures—from briny and firm to more mellow and soft—making the dish more interesting.

How long should I marinate the olives?

While two hours is sufficient to infuse the flavors, marinating overnight is highly recommended for a deeper, more harmonious taste experience.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace the labneh with a thick coconut yogurt or cashew cream. The olives and marinade remain the same, delivering wonderful flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for a party appetizer?

Definitely! Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Homemade Labneh Recipe is stunning on any appetizer table, offering a sophisticated yet approachable dish that guests will rave about.

Final Thoughts

This Citrus Herb Marinated Olives with Homemade Labneh Recipe is a treasure to have in your culinary repertoire. Its bright, fresh flavors combined with creamy, tangy labneh make it a dish you’ll want to bring to every gathering or enjoy as a special treat at home. Whip it up, share it with loved ones, and watch everyone fall in love bite after bite.

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