olive tapenade
Olive tapenade brings the authentic Mediterranean flavor in a light version, perfect for quick, healthy spreads and appetizer tables!
Ingredients
Method
- Drain and rinse the black and green olives to remove excess salt.
- In a food processor, combine the olives, capers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, thyme (optional), and black pepper.
- Pulse several times until the mixture forms a coarse paste. Do not overprocess; some texture should remain.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lemon juice or pepper to your preference.
- Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature with bread slices or vegetable sticks.
Notes
Olive tapenade is a beloved Mediterranean classic famous for its versatility as both a dip and a spread. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or planning a sophisticated appetizer table, this light and flavorful recipe brings a touch of Europe to your kitchen.
Practical Tips for the Perfect Tapenade
- Choose quality olives: Opt for Kalamata or other briny black olives for authentic taste. Rinsing the olives and capers helps to control saltiness and brings out their natural flavors.
- Texture matters: Pulse the ingredients just enough to form a coarse paste. Over-processing results in a mushy spread—texture is key for the perfect bite.
- Ingredient swaps: No capers? Try a few pickled green peppercorns or a touch of anchovy paste for a deeper umami note. Flat-leaf parsley can be replaced with basil or oregano for a twist.
- Citrus lift: A splash of fresh lemon juice not only brightens the tapenade but also balances the richness of the olives and olive oil.
Preparation and Serving Suggestions
- Letting the tapenade rest in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld and deepen; prepare up to a day ahead for the best taste.
- Serve as a dip with fresh, crunchy vegetables like cucumber, carrot sticks, or radishes. It's also a perfect spread for toasted baguette slices, flatbreads, or as a savory layer in sandwiches.
- For a bolder take, add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the food processor with the olives.
- If you enjoy a spicier kick, blend in a touch of chili flakes or chopped fresh chili.
