Marinated Olives and Feta Recipe – Easy Appetizer Idea

If you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer that looks impressive and tastes amazing, this Marinated Olives and Feta Cheese recipe is for you! With just three ingredients and no cooking required, it’s the perfect last-minute dish for parties, gatherings, or anytime you want a flavorful snack. The bold, briny olives pair beautifully with creamy feta and tangy Italian dressing, creating a Mediterranean-inspired flavor explosion in every bite.

Why You’ll Love Marinated Olives And Feta Cheese

• It’s incredibly easy to make. This recipe uses just three ingredients and comes together in minutes. No cooking, no fancy prep—just mix and serve. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone short on time.

• The flavors are bold and delicious. The briny olives, creamy feta, and zesty Italian dressing are a match made in heaven. Each bite is packed with savory goodness. It’s a simple combo with big taste.

• Great for parties or everyday snacking. This dish looks elegant on a serving platter but is easy enough to enjoy anytime. It’s ideal for potlucks, holiday spreads, or a quick afternoon treat. Guests will think you spent way more time on it than you actually did.

• It gets even better with time. You can serve it right away, but if you let it sit in the fridge, the flavors deepen beautifully. The feta soaks up the dressing, and the olives become even more flavorful. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for make-ahead entertaining.

• Customizable to your taste. Add more dressing, switch up the olives, or use pre-cubed feta to save time. You can even toss in extras like herbs or garlic if you want to get creative. It’s a flexible recipe that always delivers.

Ingredients For Marinated Olives And Feta Cheese

• Whole pitted olives – Salty, savory, and full of flavor, these are the heart of the dish. You can use green, black, or a mix depending on your taste.
• Feta cheese block – Creamy and tangy, feta adds richness and balances the brininess of the olives. Cutting it into cubes helps it absorb the dressing.
• Italian dressing – Zesty and herby, this dressing ties everything together. It adds a punch of flavor and acts as the marinade.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Marinated Olives And Feta Cheese

• Mixing bowl – For combining and marinating the olives and feta. Make sure it’s large enough to mix everything easily.
• Knife – Used to cube the block of feta cheese. A sharp knife will help keep the cubes neat.
• Cutting board – To safely cut the feta cheese without making a mess. Choose a non-slip board for best results.

How To Make Marinated Olives And Feta Cheese

• Open the can of olives and pour off all the liquid.
• Add the drained olives to a mixing bowl.
• Cube the block of feta into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl with the olives.
• Pour in your favorite Italian dressing, making sure everything gets a good coating.
• Stir gently to mix the feta and olives without breaking the cheese.
• Enjoy right away or refrigerate to let the flavors marinate and intensify.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the marinated olives and feta in a small decorative bowl as part of an appetizer spread. Add some toothpicks on the side for easy grabbing.
• Pair with warm garlic bread or crackers to soak up the extra Italian dressing.
• Include it on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, mixed nuts, fresh blueberries, or veggies like white cucumber and campari tomatoes for a stunning presentation.
• Scoop some over a bed of lettuce and avocado for a quick, flavorful salad.
• Offer it as a snack with a glass of homemade red wine or sparkling water for a relaxing at-home treat.

Tips For Success

• Use high-quality ingredients. Since this recipe is so simple, each ingredient really shines. Pick olives you enjoy eating plain and a flavorful, creamy block of feta cheese. Better ingredients equal better taste.

• Cut feta and olives into similar sizes. This makes for a more balanced bite and looks great when serving. Chill the feta before cutting if it’s too soft—it’ll help keep the cubes intact. Uniform pieces also marinate more evenly.

• Be gentle when mixing. Feta can crumble if over-handled. Use a spoon or spatula and fold everything together carefully to keep the cubes whole. A light hand makes a big difference in presentation.

• Choose a flavorful Italian dressing. A bold dressing with garlic and herbs adds more punch, while a mild one keeps it light. Taste and adjust with more dressing, a splash of olive oil, or lemon juice if needed. Add-ins like red pepper flakes or fresh herbs can also elevate the flavor.

• Let it marinate for deeper flavor. While you can eat it right away, refrigerating it allows the flavors to develop. Store covered in the fridge for at least an hour—or up to several days. Stir gently and taste before serving to adjust seasoning or add more dressing.

Variations And Substitutions

• Use different types of olives. Try green, black, Kalamata, or a mix for added color and variety. Sliced olives also work well and soak up more dressing. Choose what you like best—there’s no wrong choice here.

• Switch up the cheese. If you’re not into feta, try cubed mozzarella, goat cheese, or pepper jack for a different flavor. Just note that softer cheeses may not hold up as well during mixing. For a dairy-free option, use vegan feta or skip the cheese altogether.

• Customize the dressing. Store-bought Italian works great, but you can use homemade dressing for a fresher flavor. Try Greek dressing, balsamic vinaigrette, or a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Adjust the seasoning to fit your taste.

• Add extra ingredients. Boost flavor with sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or basil add a bright, herby touch. These simple add-ins can take the dish to the next level.

• Incorporate into meals. Spoon over a salad, cold pasta, or even grilled chicken or fish. It’s a versatile addition to many dishes. Perfect for turning a snack into a light meal.

• Fits various diets. Naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly. Easily made vegan with dairy-free cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all kinds of eaters.

Storage and Reheating

• Store in the refrigerator. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week. The longer it sits, the better it tastes! Just give it a quick stir before serving.

• No reheating needed. This is a no-cook, cold dish, so you can enjoy it straight from the fridge. Perfect for quick snacking or easy entertaining.

• Freshen it up before serving. If it looks a bit dry after storing, just drizzle on a little more Italian dressing. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of herbs to revive the flavors.

• Not freezer-friendly. The texture of the feta and olives won’t hold up well in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make marinated olives and feta cheese ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is actually perfect for making ahead. The flavors get even better as the olives and feta sit in the Italian dressing. You can prepare it several hours in advance or even a day or two before serving. Just keep it in the fridge in a sealed container and stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

What kind of olives should I use?

You can use any kind you like! Whole pitted green or black olives are the most common, but Kalamata olives add a bold, Mediterranean flavor. You can also mix different varieties for more color and taste. Whether you prefer mild or briny, just go with your favorite.

Does the feta cheese need to be cubed?

Cubing the feta helps it hold its shape and mix evenly with the olives. You can buy it pre-cubed or cut it yourself from a block. Crumbled feta will still work, but it may break down more in the dressing and look less tidy. Cubed feta also makes it easier to grab with a toothpick or fork when serving.

How long will this dish keep in the fridge?

Marinated olives and feta cheese will last up to one week when stored in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container for best results. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious after a day or two. Just stir gently before serving and add more dressing if needed.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or leave it out entirely. There are many dairy-free feta-style cheeses available now that mimic the texture and flavor of the real thing. Just make sure to check the label for your dietary needs. The olives and Italian dressing alone still make a tasty appetizer.

What can I serve with marinated olives and feta?

This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies. It’s also great on a charcuterie board or served as a topping for salad. You can even mix it into cold pasta for a quick pasta salad. It’s versatile, colorful, and packed with flavor—perfect for any occasion.

Other Easy Olive Recipes

Russian Solyanka Soup With Olives and Pickles – This hearty and tangy Russian soup is packed with meat, olives, pickles, and bold flavors in a rich tomato broth.

Turkey Chef Salad With Lettuce, Red Onion and Olives – A fresh and satisfying main dish salad loaded with lean turkey, crisp lettuce, tangy olives, and sliced red onions.

Other Easy Feta Cheese Recipes

Mediterranean Turkey Sausage Pita Sandwiches With Feta and Peppers – These flavorful pita pockets are stuffed with juicy turkey sausage, sweet bell peppers, and creamy feta cheese.

Scrambled Eggs With Spinach and Crumbled Feta – Fluffy scrambled eggs are taken to the next level with savory crumbled feta and tender baby spinach.

Roasted Beet Salad With Citrus and Feta Cheese – Earthy roasted beets pair beautifully with juicy orange slices and salty feta in this vibrant salad.

Spinach and Strawberry Salad With Feta and Balsamic Dressing – Sweet strawberries, fresh spinach, and tangy feta come together in this colorful and refreshing salad.

Feta Omelette Recipe – This easy feta omelet is light, fluffy, and bursting with creamy cheese and savory flavor.

More Mediterranean Recipes

• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
• Baked Mediterranean Branzino
• Fattoush Salad With Pita Chips