Marinated Shrimp and Olives is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that combines tender shrimp with briny olives, all bathed in a zesty marinade. This dish is perfect for entertaining, offering a refreshing and elegant option that’s easy to prepare in advance. The shrimp are quickly cooked and then marinated with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Paired with a mix of green and black olives, this dish delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will impress your guests. Serve it chilled as a sophisticated starter or as part of a tapas spread for a truly memorable dining experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup mixed green and black olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and pat them dry.
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Shrimp and Olives:
- Add the cooked shrimp and mixed olives to the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything together until the shrimp and olives are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Before serving, give the shrimp and olives a final toss. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Marinated Shrimp and Olives is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Its refreshing taste and beautiful presentation make it an ideal choice for any gathering, providing a perfect balance of tangy, briny, and aromatic notes that will delight your guests.
