MARINATED OLIVES AND DIPPING OIL

            1¼ pounds of your favorite cured olives
            3 cloves garlic, crushed
            1½ teaspoons dried thyme
            2 dashes hot sauce
            12 long strips lemon zest
            1 teaspoon chopped Italian parsley
            ¾ cup Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil
            Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Combine all the ingredients in a container with a tight-fitting lid.  Shake, shake, shake, and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for a few days or longer before serving.

It's a good idea to shake occasionally each day.  When ready to serve, remove the olives from the container with a slotted spoon.  Save the flavored oil for spreading on bread or use as a vegetable dip.  It is also good splashed over chicken before roasting.