Serves 12 as part of a selection of starters

There are lots of ways to enhance olives and 19seventies girl loves this method when there is time. Serving them just warm brings out their flavour.

You need

1 cup good quality black olives, marinated in olive oil with stones intact

1/2  tablespoon thyme leaves

Zest of ½ lemon cut into very fine strips

Olive oil

2-3 young fresh bay leaves, if available

sprigs of fresh thyme for serving

To make

Gently warm the olive oil and add the lemon zest, bay leaves and olives.

Remove from stove and place into serving bowl. Garnish with a sprig or two of fresh thyme.