Salatet Zaitoun (Egyptian Olive Salad)

🧂 Ingredients

• 400 g Green olives(Pitted green olives are preferred for ease. Egyptian or Greek varieties offer a good briney flavor.)
• 2 medium Carrots(Peeled.)
• 2 stalks Celery(Fresh and crisp.)
• 60 ml Extra virgin olive oil(Good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor.)
• 3 tbsp Fresh lemon juice(From about 1-2 lemons, depending on size.)
• 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(Finely chopped. Optional, but highly recommended for freshness.)
• 1 clove Garlic(Minced. Optional, for a sharper flavor.)
• 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes(Optional, for a hint of heat.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the olives: If your olives are whole and not pitted, carefully pit them using an olive pitter or the flat side of a knife. Once pitted, slice the olives into rounds or halves, depending on your preference. Aim for bite-sized pieces.

   ⏱️ 10 minutes
2. 2

   Julienne the vegetables: Peel the carrots. Trim the ends off the celery stalks. Using a sharp knife or a julienne peeler, cut the carrots and celery into thin, matchstick-like strips (julienne).

   ⏱️ 7 minutes
3. 3

   Combine the salad: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sliced olives, julienned carrots, and julienned celery. If using, add the chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes
4. 4

   Make the dressing and toss: In a small bowl or directly over the salad ingredients, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the olive and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until well combined and the vegetables and olives are evenly coated.

   ⏱️ 1 minute
5. 5

   Marinate and serve: Allow the salad to marinate at room temperature for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary (you might want a pinch of salt or a bit more lemon juice). Serve chilled or at room temperature as an appetizer or side dish.

   ⏱️ 10-15 minutes (marinating)

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓For the best flavor, use high-quality Egyptian or Greek green olives. Their briny taste is characteristic of this dish.
• ✓The salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld.
• ✓This salad is a wonderful addition to a mezze platter, alongside hummus, baba ghanoush, and pita bread.

🔄 Variations

• Add a handful of chopped fresh cilantro along with the parsley.
• Include a finely minced small red onion or shallot for extra sharpness.
• Incorporate a tablespoon of capers for an additional briny kick.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving