Lemon-Herb Olives with Goat Cheese

Name: Lemon-Herb Olives with Goat Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6 servings.
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh oregano or rosemary; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup assorted pitted Greek olives; 1 package (5.3 ounces) fresh goat cheese; 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil; Assorted crackers

Greek olives have a fruity flavor that comes into play when you mix them with lemon and fresh herbs. Spoon over goat cheese and slather on crackers. —Jeanne Ambrose, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon minced fresh oregano or rosemary
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 cup assorted pitted Greek olives
1 package (5.3 ounces) fresh goat cheese
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil
Assorted crackers

Directions

In a small skillet, combine the first 5 ingredients; heat over medium heat just until fragrant, 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in olives; heat through, allowing flavors to blend. Cool completely.
To serve, place cheese on a serving plate. Stir basil into olive mixture; spoon over cheese. Serve with crackers.

Nutrition Facts

1 serving (calculated without crackers): 135 calories, 13g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 285mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.

Originally published as Lemony Herbed Olives with Goat Cheese in Simple & Delicious December/January 2016