Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these irresistible Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli! Imagine biting into golden, crispy olives bursting with salty, briny goodness, perfectly paired with a creamy, garlicky dip that’s downright addictive. Whether you’re hosting friends, craving a unique appetizer, or just want something crunchy and satisfying, this recipe is a total showstopper. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked crispy, flavorful, and just a little bit fancy without any fuss.
Why You’ll Love Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or even a fun side dish.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes great for last-minute entertaining.
Customizable: Swap olives or spice up the aioli to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Crispy, savory, and creamy a combo that wins over all ages.
Ingredients in Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli
These few ingredients team up for a crispy, creamy, and flavorful snack experience:
Green Olives: The star—pitted and ready for frying into golden perfection.
Flour and Cornstarch: Create the light, crunchy coating that makes each bite a delight.
Eggs: Help the coating stick for that perfect crunch.
Breadcrumbs or Panko: Adds extra texture and crunchiness.
Oil for Frying: Neutral oil like vegetable or canola for a crisp fry without overpowering flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced to pack the aioli with punchy flavor.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the aioli dip.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the garlic richness.
Salt and Pepper: To season both olives and aioli perfectly.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Having the right temperature is key for crispy olives without greasy results.
Prepare the Coating: Set up a breading station with three bowls one with flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs or panko.
Coat the Olives: Roll each olive first in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs. Make sure each olive is fully covered for maximum crunch.
Fry to Perfection: Carefully drop olives into hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Garlic Aioli: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate your crispy fried olives alongside the garlic aioli for dipping. Get ready for crunchy bites with creamy, garlicky goodness that’s simply addictive.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250
(put them as notes)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
How to Serve Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve alongside a chilled white wine or sparkling beverage for a classy appetizer vibe.
Pair with a fresh green salad or charcuterie board for variety.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for color and freshness.
Offer extra lemon wedges for an added zesty kick.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use large, firm green olives for the best texture.
Make sure oil is hot enough before frying to prevent soggy coating.
Don’t overcrowd the pan to keep the temperature steady.
For a spicy twist, add cayenne or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Prepare the aioli ahead of time to let flavors develop.
Drain fried olives on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Try stuffing olives with cheese before frying for a decadent upgrade.
Keep fried olives warm in a low oven if making ahead.
Serve immediately for the crispiest bite.
FAQs
1. Can I bake the olives instead of frying?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
2. What kind of olives are best for frying?
Large, firm green olives work best as they hold their shape well.
3. Can I make the garlic aioli ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
4. Can I use store-bought aioli?
Yes, but fresh garlic aioli has a brighter, fresher flavor.
5. How do I keep the fried olives crispy?
Serve immediately or keep warm on a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
6. Can I add spices to the coating?
Definitely! Try adding smoked paprika, cayenne, or Italian herbs.
7. What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best.
8. Can I use black olives instead?
Green olives are preferred for frying, but you can try black olives for a milder flavor.
9. How long do leftover fried olives last?
Best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated and reheated within 1 day.
10. Can I freeze fried olives?
Freezing isn’t recommended as the coating loses its crispness.
Conclusion
Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli bring a delightful crunch and creamy punch that will instantly become your new favorite appetizer or snack. They’re quick, easy, and full of flavor perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. So go ahead, whip up a batch and watch these golden bites disappear fast. You’re in for a crispy, garlicky treat that’s hard to resist!
Print
Fried Olives with Garlic Aioli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy fried olives served with a creamy garlic aioli dipping sauce make a perfect appetizer or snack with a delightful crunch and rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup large green olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Garlic Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Set up a breading station with the seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
- Coat each olive first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Repeat for all olives.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry olives in batches for about 2–3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- For the aioli, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Serve the fried olives hot with garlic aioli on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use large olives for better coating and frying.
- Make sure oil temperature is steady to avoid greasy olives.
- The garlic aioli can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: fried olives, garlic aioli, crispy appetizer, Mediterranean snack, deep-fried olives