Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli are a deliciously addictive treat. The green olives, when coated in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, turn crispy on the outside while staying juicy and flavorful on the inside. Paired with a creamy, zesty garlic aioli, this appetizer is a perfect balance of flavors. It’s quick to prepare, making it an easy yet impressive dish to serve at your next gathering or as a fun snack. Whether you’re a fan of olives or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients
For the Fried Olives:
- 1 cup green olives, drained
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
For the Garlic Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Garlic Aioli: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Coat the Olives: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, place the beaten eggs. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each olive into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure each olive is well coated.
- Fry the Olives: Heat a few inches of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded olives in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the olives from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
- Serve: Arrange the fried olives on a serving plate and serve with the garlic aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately while they’re still crispy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Different Olives: You can experiment with different varieties of olives, such as Kalamata or black olives, for a unique flavor twist.
- Spicy Aioli: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the aioli for some extra heat.
- Herb-infused Breadcrumbs: Add finely chopped herbs like parsley or oregano to the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Fried olives are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the fried olives in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes to regain some crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use black olives instead of green?
Yes, you can use black olives if you prefer a milder flavor, though green olives offer a sharper taste that works well with the crispy coating.
Can I make the garlic aioli ahead of time?
Yes, the garlic aioli can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can use a flax egg or a vegan egg replacement to make this dish egg-free. You can also use a mixture of water and cornstarch as a binding agent.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Panko breadcrumbs work great for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will work too.
Can I bake the olives instead of frying them?
While frying provides the best crispy texture, you can try baking them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes. Just be sure to spray them with a little oil to help with crisping.
What else can I serve with garlic aioli?
Garlic aioli pairs wonderfully with vegetables, fries, or as a spread on sandwiches.
Can I freeze the fried olives?
It’s not recommended to freeze fried olives as they may lose their crispiness. They are best enjoyed fresh.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough to fry?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the pan. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
Can I add cheese to the breadcrumbs?
Yes, adding grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano to the breadcrumbs will give the olives an extra burst of savory flavor.
How long should I fry the olives?
Fry the olives for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even frying.
Conclusion
Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli are the perfect appetizer for anyone who loves bold flavors and crispy textures. The crunchy, golden olives paired with the smooth, garlicky dip are a match made in heaven. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is a great choice for your next gathering or whenever you need a quick, flavorful snack. Enjoy the irresistible combination of salty, savory, and creamy goodness in every bite!
Print
Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli are a crispy, savory appetizer that combines the bold flavors of green olives with a rich, creamy garlic dip. Easy to prepare and quick to make, this dish is perfect for parties, gatherings, or a fun snack. The crunchy fried olives paired with smooth, garlicky aioli create a delightful contrast that will have everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
For the Fried Olives:
1 cup green olives, drained
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
For the Garlic Aioli:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the Garlic Aioli: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and season with salt and pepper. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Coat the Olives: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first, add flour. In the second, place the beaten eggs. In the third, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each olive into the flour, then into the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each olive is evenly coated.
-
Fry the Olives: Heat a few inches of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded olives in batches and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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Serve: Arrange the fried olives on a serving plate and serve with the garlic aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately while crispy!
Notes
Try different olive varieties like Kalamata or black olives for a unique twist on the flavor.
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the aioli for some extra heat.
For added flavor, mix chopped herbs such as parsley or oregano into the breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
