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Warmed Spiced Olives

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This elegant vegan recipe for warm spiced olives is a sophisticated addition to any aperitif hour or mezze spread. By gently heating high-quality unpitted olives, such as buttery Castelvetrano or meaty Cerignola, you release their natural oils and allow them to soak up the aromatic flavours of toasted fennel and citrus. It is a simple yet effective way to elevate a shop-bought staple into a gourmet snack that smells as wonderful as it tastes.

Perfect for effortless entertaining, these olives are infused with a subtle heat from Aleppo pepper and the herbal notes of dried bay leaves. Serve them in a beautiful ceramic bowl alongside some crusty sourdough to mop up the fragrant infused oil. This heart-healthy appetiser is naturally gluten-free and makes a versatile starter for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner party or a relaxing weekend at home.

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Ingredients for Warmed Spiced Olives

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fennel seeds

  • 6 (3- by 1/2-inch) strips lemon zest (from one lemon)

  • 4 dried bay leaves

  • 675g mixed unpitted olives (such as Castelvetrano, Cerignola, and/or Alfonso)

  • 240ml olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon Aleppo pepper

How to make Warmed Spiced Olives

Toast fennel seeds in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add lemon zest, bay leaves, olives, oil, and Aleppo pepper and cook, stirring, until just warmed through, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve warm.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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