If you need a quick, delicious, "wow" appetizer, this recipe is for you. The roasted olives are mild, soft and warm. Serve with a spoon on individual appetizer plates or use individual tootpicks to serve.
3 c. assorted olives, varying in color, pitted or unpitted (or allow about 1/2 cup per person)
1 c. good quality feta cheese, cut in small bite sized cubes
1 - 2 red or green jalapenos, thinly sliced, seeds and all (optional)
juice of 1 lemon
handful of fresh thyme, divided
salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
3 T. good quality olive oil
2 T. good quality red wine or sherry vinegar
Set oven to 400 degrees.
Spread olives out in a casserole dish or baking pan. Toss with remaining ingredients. Taste the dressing to adjust any of the ingredients.
Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling.
Replace the roasted thyme with fresh sprigs, and serve hot with warm, crusty bread.