Appetizer Recipe: Pomegranate Olive Relish
In the usual order of things, one decides to have a party, and then figures out which dishes to serve. But in this case, it was a stellar pomegranate and olive relish that got the ball rolling. “We have to throw a holiday party so people can taste this!” exclaimed my partner, and pretty soon we were discussing the guest list between bites.
Inspired by Persian and Turkish salads, this company-worthy relish combines jewel-like pomegranate seeds with green olives and roasted pistachios, dressed up with good olive oil and pomegranate molasses. The combination is fruity and tangy with a delightful play of textures. (Walnuts are perhaps the most traditional accompaniment to pomegranates and olives, and you could substitute those if you wish. I’m allergic to walnuts and found that pistachios worked beautifully.)
For myself and other friends on gluten-free and vegan diets, I’m serving the relish on socca crackers. For everyone else, the plan is spoon the relish atop goat cheese crostini – the pairing that made Gregory do a little dance of joy before making party plans.
Pomegranate Olive Relish
Makes about 2 cups
Nutritional Info
Ingredients
- 1 cup
cured green olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup
roasted pistachios
- 1 cup
pomegranate seeds (arils)
- 2 tablespoons
minced shallots
- 2 teaspoons
finely chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons
extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons
pomegranate molasses
Dash of lemon juice
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Coarsely chop the green olives and pistachios to roughly the size of the pomegranate seeds or a bit smaller.
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and season to taste. Depending on the flavor of the pomegranates and olives, you may need more or less lemon juice and salt.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to a day before serving.
Serve with crackers, bread, or pita chips. Delicious on crostini with goat cheese.
(Images: Emily Ho)