Infused with Mediterranean charm and a touch of anise-flavored sweetness, this Kalamata Olives with Lemon and Anisette recipe is a sophisticated appetizer that's ready in just 15 minutes. Briny Kalamata olives are elevated with the bright zest and juice of fresh lemon, the subtle licorice notes of anisette liqueur, and the savory crunch of toasted fennel seeds. Sautéed garlic and a hint of crushed red pepper lend depth and warmth, while fresh parsley adds a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Perfect served warm or at room temperature, these olives pair beautifully with crusty bread or crackers, making them an ideal choice for entertaining or adding a gourmet touch to any snack spread.
1. Rinse and drain the Kalamata olives, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Zest and juice the lemon, reserving both the zest and juice for later use.
3. Thinly slice the garlic cloves and roughly chop the fresh parsley.
4. In a small skillet, heat the fennel seeds over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Be careful not to burn them.
5. Add the olive oil and garlic slices to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is golden and fragrant.
6. Stir in the fennel seeds, lemon zest, lemon juice, anisette liqueur, and crushed red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 1 minute.
7. Add the Kalamata olives to the skillet and stir gently to coat them in the aromatic mixture. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the olives to a serving dish.
9. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and a few grinds of black pepper over the top for garnish.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature with crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy!
Calories |
1580 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 148.6 g | 191% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.1 g | 96% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 5709 mg | 248% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50.0 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 33.0 g | 118% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.6 g | ||
| Protein | 1.6 g | 3% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 512 mg | 39% | |
| Iron | 16.4 mg | 91% | |
| Potassium | 209 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.