Olive verdi sott’olio

Untreated, dark green or purple-black olives can be bought — or in Tuscany picked directly off a tree — for preserving. They must be soaked in water for several days to reduce their bitterness. See note on preserving.

This quantity will make slightly more than 1 litre (4 cups). If you use smaller jars, make sure that each jar gets a garlic clove or two, a chilli and is completely covered with olive oil.