Name: Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup green olives, drained; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil, for frying; For the Garlic Aioli:; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a unique twist on traditional fried snacks. The green olives provide a bold, tangy flavor, while the crunchy panko breadcrumb coating adds an irresistible texture. Paired with a smooth, garlicky aioli, these fried olives are a delicious mix of salty, savory, and creamy. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and ready in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

1 cup green olives, drained
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Garlic Aioli:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to prepare the aioli. Cover and refrigerate.
Pat the olives dry with a paper towel. Dredge them in flour, dip them in the beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the olives in batches for 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Plate the fried olives and serve with the garlic aioli on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Herb-infused aioli: Add a teaspoon of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the aioli for a fragrant twist.
Spicy version: Spice up the aioli by mixing in a small amount of sriracha or chili flakes for a zesty kick.
Cheese-filled olives: For an extra indulgent treat, stuff the olives with cheese before breading and frying them.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Fried olives are best enjoyed immediately after frying for maximum crispiness. However, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the olives on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of olives for this recipe?

Yes, you can use Kalamata olives or other types of green olives, but green olives tend to have a firmer texture that holds up well during frying.

Can I make the garlic aioli in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic aioli a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even more intense garlic taste.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

While panko breadcrumbs are recommended for their extra crunch, regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread or a breadcrumb. If it browns quickly and sizzles, the oil is ready.

How can I make the aioli spicier?

To add some heat, mix in a little bit of Dijon mustard, hot sauce, or chili powder into the aioli for a spicy kick.

Can I deep fry these olives?

Yes, deep frying will work as well. Just be sure to monitor the temperature to avoid burning the olives.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

How long should I fry the olives?

Fry the olives for 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off the olives?

Make sure the olives are patted dry before breading, and press the breadcrumbs gently into the olives to ensure they stick well.

Can I make the fried olives ahead of time?

While it’s best to serve fried olives immediately for maximum crispiness, you can prepare and coat the olives ahead of time and fry them just before serving.

Conclusion

Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli are a fantastic snack or appetizer that’s both simple and full of flavor. With their crispy exterior, briny olive center, and creamy, garlicky dip, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for parties, tapas nights, or as a savory treat, these fried olives will impress anyone who tries them.