Olive Summer Cup: Your Refreshing Guide to the Perfect Summer Drink

Olive Summer Cup: Imagine yourself basking in the warm glow of the Mediterranean sun, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of citrus and herbs. Now, capture that feeling in a glass! This isn’t just a drink; it’s a vibrant celebration of summer, a symphony of flavors that will transport you to sun-drenched shores with every sip.

The concept of a “cup” – a mixed alcoholic drink served in a large bowl or pitcher – has a rich history, dating back centuries in Europe. Often associated with garden parties and social gatherings, these concoctions were a way to showcase seasonal ingredients and create a communal experience. Our olive summer cup takes this tradition and infuses it with the distinctive flavors of the Mediterranean, particularly the briny, savory notes of olives.

But why do people adore a well-crafted summer cup? It’s simple: refreshment, versatility, and sheer deliciousness! The combination of fruits, herbs, and a touch of spirits creates a drink that’s both invigorating and sophisticated. The olive element adds a unique twist, balancing the sweetness with a savory depth that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, relaxing by the pool, or simply unwinding after a long day, this olive-infused delight is the perfect companion. The salty olive flavor combined with the sweet summer fruits makes this a drink that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted green olives, such as Castelvetrano, roughly chopped
• 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 4 ounces goat cheese, softened (optional, for serving)

Preparing the Olive Mixture:

Okay, let’s get started! The heart of this Olive Summer Cup is the vibrant olive mixture. This is where all the delicious flavors come together, so pay close attention to the details.

1. Chop the Olives: First, you’ll want to roughly chop both the green and Kalamata olives. Don’t go too fine here; we want some texture in the final product. Think about pieces that are about 1/4 inch in size. This ensures you get a burst of olive flavor in every bite.
2. Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Next, drain the sun-dried tomatoes from their oil. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess oil. Then, chop them into small pieces, similar in size to the chopped olives. The sun-dried tomatoes add a sweetness and chewy texture that complements the olives perfectly.
3. Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves as finely as possible. You can use a garlic press or chop them with a knife. The garlic will infuse the olive mixture with its pungent aroma and flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic when you are toasting the bread later.
4. Chop the Herbs: Now, it’s time to chop the fresh basil and mint. These herbs bring a refreshing and aromatic element to the dish. Make sure the herbs are dry before chopping them to prevent them from clumping together. A sharp knife will help you achieve clean cuts and prevent bruising the herbs.
5. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, and chopped mint. This is where the magic begins!
6. Add the Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice. The olive oil will bind the ingredients together and add richness, while the red wine vinegar and lemon juice will provide acidity and balance the flavors.
7. Season the Mixture: Add the lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and salt. The lemon zest will enhance the citrusy notes, the red pepper flakes will add a touch of heat, and the black pepper and salt will season the mixture to perfection.
8. Mix Well: Use a spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together. Make sure everything is evenly distributed and coated with the olive oil and vinegar mixture.
9. Taste and Adjust: This is a crucial step! Taste the olive mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, or lemon juice to suit your preferences. Remember, the flavors will meld together over time, so don’t be afraid to be bold with your seasoning.
10. Let it Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the olive mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a few hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and deepen. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

Preparing the Bread:

While the olive mixture is marinating, let’s prepare the bread. The toasted baguette slices will provide a crispy and sturdy base for the olive topping.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the bread toasts evenly without burning.
2. Slice the Baguette: Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. You can use a serrated knife for clean and even slices.
3. Arrange the Slices: Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure the slices are not overlapping to ensure even toasting.
4. Bake the Bread: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the slices are lightly golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Cool the Bread: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bread slices cool completely on a wire rack. This will allow them to crisp up even further.

Assembling the Olive Summer Cup:

Now for the fun part – assembling the Olive Summer Cup! This is where all your hard work comes together to create a beautiful and delicious appetizer.

1. Prepare the Goat Cheese (Optional): If you’re using goat cheese, soften it by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to spread on the bread.
2. Spread the Goat Cheese (Optional): Spread a thin layer of softened goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice. The goat cheese adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the olive mixture perfectly. If you don’t like goat cheese, you can skip this step or use another type of cheese, such as cream cheese or ricotta.
3. Top with Olive Mixture: Spoon a generous amount of the marinated olive mixture onto each baguette slice, whether you’ve used goat cheese or not. Make sure to distribute the olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs evenly.
4. Garnish (Optional): Garnish the Olive Summer Cups with a sprinkle of fresh basil or mint leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will add a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the Olive Summer Cups immediately. They are best enjoyed when the bread is still crispy and the olive mixture is fresh and flavorful.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize this recipe to your liking:

• Olive Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of olives, such as Cerignola, Manzanilla, or Nicoise. Each type of olive will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
• Cheese Variations: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can use other types of cheese, such as feta, cream cheese, or ricotta. You can also omit the cheese altogether for a vegan option.
• Herb Variations: You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary. Each herb will add its own unique aroma and flavor to the dish.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
• Make Ahead: The olive mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a great option for entertaining. Just be sure to add the fresh herbs right before serving to prevent them from wilting.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the Olive Summer Cups as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. They are perfect for parties, picnics, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make dish.
• Bread Alternatives: If you don’t have a baguette, you can use other types of bread, such as ciabatta, sourdough, or even crackers. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the olive mixture.
• Add Capers: For an extra burst of salty flavor, add a tablespoon or two of capers to the olive mixture.
• Grilled Bread: Instead of toasting the bread in the oven, you can grill it for a smoky flavor. Brush the bread slices with olive oil and grill them over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are lightly charred.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Olive Summer Cup recipe as much as I do! It’s a simple, yet elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of salty olives, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and tangy goat cheese (if using) is simply irresistible. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think!

Conclusion:

This Olive Summer Cup isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s sunshine in a glass, a burst of Mediterranean flavor that will transport you to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the sea. The combination of the briny olives, the refreshing cucumber, and the herbaceous gin creates a symphony of tastes that is both sophisticated and incredibly easy to enjoy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it all summer long!

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s more than just the taste. It’s the simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a drink that rivals anything you’d order at a fancy cocktail bar. It’s the versatility. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences, swapping out ingredients or adjusting the ratios to create your perfect summer cup. And it’s the sheer joy of sharing it with friends and family. Imagine serving this at your next barbecue or garden party – the looks of delight on your guests’ faces will be priceless.

Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving this Olive Summer Cup in large pitchers, perfect for sharing. Garnish each glass with a sprig of rosemary or thyme for an extra touch of elegance. For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the gin with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic gin alternative. You can also experiment with different types of olives – Castelvetrano olives offer a buttery, mild flavor, while Kalamata olives provide a more intense, briny kick.

Want to take it to the next level? Try muddling a few slices of fresh ginger with the cucumber before adding the other ingredients. This will add a subtle warmth and spice that complements the other flavors beautifully. You could also infuse your gin with olives for a few days before making the drink for an even more intense olive flavor. Another fun variation is to add a splash of elderflower liqueur for a touch of sweetness and floral aroma.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavors. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so adaptable. You can truly make it your own.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Olive Summer Cup that I urge you to try it as soon as possible. Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite glass, and get ready to experience a taste of summer. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your creations with me! I’d love to see your photos and hear about your variations. Tag me on social media and let me know what you think. I can’t wait to see your take on this delicious and refreshing summer cocktail. Happy mixing! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’m always here to help you create the perfect summer drink. Cheers to a summer filled with delicious drinks and unforgettable moments!