Algerian Spiced Green Olives

• 2 cups (½ pound) green olives, drained
• 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil

Crack the olives with a mallet, the flat side of a cleaver, or a small, heavy saucepan. Put them in a bowl and cover with cold water. Soak overnight. Drain well.

In a sauté pan or skillet, heat the oil over low heat and cook the garlic, spices, and bay leaves, if using, for 3 minutes. Add the olives and cook for 2 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat. Add the lemon juice and let cool. Place i