Spicy Mixed Olives Recipe

Prepare and quick-pickle vegetables

Place halved peppers, sliced jalapeño, halved mushrooms and sliced shallot in a medium bowl. Add white wine vinegar and toss to coat. Let sit 10 minutes to soften and lightly pickle while you prepare other ingredients. Drain any excess liquid before adding to olives.

If you prefer softer mushrooms, sauté mushrooms and shallot in 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until edges brown and shallot is translucent; cool slightly before combining. (Optional)

Combine olives and aromatics

In a medium mixing bowl or shallow jar large enough to hold everything, add the mixed olives, sliced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme sprigs and oregano sprigs. Pour in the olive oil and gently stir or shake to coat the olives and aromatics evenly.

Season

Add the drained peppers, jalapeño, mushrooms and shallot to the bowl with the olives. Sprinkle in the coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss gently to combine, making sure garlic and herbs are distributed through the mixture.

Taste and adjust: if the mixture needs more acidity, add an additional 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice; if it needs more heat, add another 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.

Transfer the olives and vegetables into a clean jar or airtight container if not already using one. Pour any remaining olive oil over the top so the solids are mostly submerged; this helps preserve flavor and keeps garlic mellow.

Seal and refrigerate: Refrigerate at least 12 hours (preferably 24–48 hours) to allow flavors to meld. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving so the oil loosens and aroma opens.

Before serving, remove thyme and oregano sprigs if you prefer, or leave them for presentation. Stir in chopped parsley. Plate olives with toasted lemon slices for garnish. Serve with crusty bread, crackers or as part of an antipasto board.

Storage: keep refrigerated in olive oil and use within 2 weeks. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.