Olives & More Recipe

Pit and rinse olives (if needed)

If olives are not pitted, remove pits. Rinse briefly under cool water and drain in a colander to remove excess brine; pat dry with paper towel. Place 2 cups of mixed olives in a medium mixing bowl.

Slice pepperdews

Drain jarred pepperdews well. Slice 3 pepperdew peppers into thin rings (discard seeds if you prefer less heat). Add the sliced pepperdews to the bowl with the olives.

Crumble feta

Using a fork or your hands, crumble 4 ounces of feta into irregular bite-size pieces and add about half to the olive mixture, reserving the remainder for topping just before serving.

In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest, 1 teaspoon chili flakes, 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice. Whisk until emulsified and the chili flakes are distributed evenly.

Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning: add a pinch more salt or a few drops more lemon juice if you want brighter acidity, or a touch more orange zest for aromatic citrus.

Pour the dressing over the olive, pepperdew and feta mixture. Toss gently with a spoon or your hands until everything is evenly coated so the oil and zest cling to the olives and pepper rings.

Fold in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Transfer the mixture to a shallow serving bowl or small platter so the flavors can mingle and the oil pools slightly for dipping.

Scatter the reserved crumbled feta over the top and finish with an extra pinch of orange zest and a light dusting of chili flakes for color and heat contrast.

Let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the oil and citrus to perfume the olives. Serve with toasted baguette slices or crostini and lemon wedges on the side.

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Bring back to room temperature before serving to restore flavor and texture. If oil firms in the fridge, let bowl sit at room temperature or briefly stir to loosen.