Fenneled Olives

When people stop by, whether expectedly or unexpectedly, in ones and twos or in full-size crowds, I want to serve some food along with a glass of wine or another drink. It is always comforting to have a couple of items on hand that can be prepared easily, preferably ahead of time, and set out on a table with pride. The food should look appealing while satisfying most taste preferences.

One favorite is fenneled olives, which taste better when made a week in advance and kept refrigera