These Greek-style warm marinated olives, infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs, are a real treat. They’re ready in just 15 minutes, super simple to make, and full of flavor. Perfect for a party, as part of a tapas board, or just for snacking.
The olives become soft on the inside, with a little bite on the outside. The warm oil, infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs, gives them a taste that feels like a little holiday in Greece. They look great on the table, and they taste even better.

Homemade Herb Oil Marinated Olives – Perfect for Tapas or Snacking
I make this recipe a lot—especially when we have friends or family over. It’s easy, it looks nice, and it’s always gone quickly.
The first time I made it, I had some leftover olives and herbs and wanted to try something new. I heated everything gently in oil, added some garlic and lemon, and let the olives absorb it all. It turned out so well that now I keep this recipe on repeat.
It reminds me of sunny holidays and relaxed dinners. Just a small bowl on the table, and it already feels festive. Now it’s part of our family favorites—and maybe soon part of yours too.
Top Tip
Use seedless olives. They are easier to eat and soak up more flavor.

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📖 Recipe
RECIPE CARD
Ingredients
- 2¼ cup olive oil
- 3 sprigs fresh oregano
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ red chili pepper, seeds removed
- 1 lemon peel, about 1 inch (2 cm)
- 1 cup black olives
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Instructions
- Pour the olive oil into a small saucepan.2¼ cup olive oil
- Add the oregano, garlic, chili pepper, and lemon peel.3 sprigs fresh oregano, 2 cloves garlic, ¼ red chili pepper, 1 lemon peel
- Heat it gently until it just starts to boil. Let it bubble for one more minute.
- Put the olives in a clean glass jar with a lid.1 cup black olives
- Carefully pour the warm oil and herbs over the olives.
- Place the lid loosely on the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
- When it’s cooled down, close the lid tightly.
- Let the olives marinate for at least 8 hours before serving.
Notes
- Keep the jar in a cool, dry place. Use within one week for optimal flavor.
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