Lightly crush the olives without breaking them.

Pour the crushed olives into a glass jar with a lid, discarding any oil produced.

Add the dried red chilies, minced garlic, and dried thyme (if using) to the jar.

Lightly shake the jar to ensure equal distribution of the ingredients.

Pour enough red wine vinegar into the jar to completely submerge the contents.

Add a dash of lemon juice.

Seal the jar.

Store the jar at room temperature for several days, shaking it occasionally.