Perhaps I've seen Under the Tuscan Sun one too many times, but who doesn't fantasize about trading it
all in for a simpler lifestyle. Imagine, a charming villa set within the beautiful Tuscan countryside. I would grow olives and spend the days outdoor with the sun caressing my shoulders while my dogs run carefree nearby. I would learn the language and make friends with the locals, absorb the culture, becoming entwined into it until it was a became a part of who I was. Hey, a girl can dream... until then I can make roasted olives. This is such a quick and simple recipe and is a wonderful appetizer to accompany cheese and bread sticks. My daughter likes them so much, she'll often walk to the store with her friend and you can be sure they always have olives upon arrival. Olives aren't just for martinis... who knew?! Here is the recipe:
all in for a simpler lifestyle. Imagine, a charming villa set within the beautiful Tuscan countryside. I would grow olives and spend the days outdoor with the sun caressing my shoulders while my dogs run carefree nearby. I would learn the language and make friends with the locals, absorb the culture, becoming entwined into it until it was a became a part of who I was. Hey, a girl can dream... until then I can make roasted olives. This is such a quick and simple recipe and is a wonderful appetizer to accompany cheese and bread sticks. My daughter likes them so much, she'll often walk to the store with her friend and you can be sure they always have olives upon arrival. Olives aren't just for martinis... who knew?! Here is the recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups assorted green and black olives
- Zest of 1 orange, cut into long, thin strips
- 1⁄4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1⁄4 tsp. dried chili flakes
- Salt, to taste
Directions:
Warm olive oil in a saute pan add olives when warm. Sprinkle with orange zest, chili flakes, salt and pepper to taste. Stir occasionally to evenly coat and cook until heated through approximately 3-4 minutes. Enjoy!
Side note: I prefer to use only green olives I think they are much more flavorful than the black.
P.S. Olive you! {Couldn't resist the cheesy joke}
Photo credits: 1) The Steward, 2) Marie Claire, 3) Williams-Sonoma
