Description
Mediterranean Olive Tapenade
Ingredients
1 cup mixed olives (Kalamata, green, or your choice), pitted
2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp capers, drained
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Blend Ingredients:
In a food processor, combine olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, parsley, garlic, and lemon zest. Pulse a few times to create a coarse texture.
Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle in olive oil while pulsing again, until you reach your desired consistency. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Transfer to a serving dish, drizzle with extra olive oil, and garnish with fresh parsley. Pair with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 120 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect tapenade every time. First, ensure all your olives are properly pitted to avoid damaging your food processor blade and to achieve a smooth texture. Roughly chop the sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, and garlic to help the ingredients combine evenly. Place the pitted olives, chopped tomatoes, capers, parsley, minced garlic, and lemon zest into the bowl of your food processor. Secure the lid tightly. Pulse the mixture in short, 1-2 second bursts, about 5-7 times. Stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula. The goal is a coarse, rustic chop, not a puree. Next, with the processor running on low, slowly drizzle the 3 tablespoons of olive oil through the feed tube until the mixture just comes together. Finally, transfer to a bowl, taste, and season with salt and pepper only if needed, as the olives and capers are already salty.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile tapenade is more than just a dip. Serve it as a classic appetizer with toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, or crudité. For an elegant touch, spoon it over a block of softened cream cheese or goat cheese. Use it as a vibrant condiment: spread it on sandwiches and wraps, dollop it on grilled chicken or fish, or stir a spoonful into pasta for an instant flavor boost. It also makes a fantastic stuffing for mushrooms or a topping for crostini with a slice of mozzarella.
How-to Summary
To make Mediterranean Olive Tapenade, simply combine pitted olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, parsley, garlic, and lemon zest in a food processor. Pulse to a coarse chop. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until combined. Season to taste and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make tapenade without a food processor?
Yes. You can finely chop all ingredients by hand with a sharp knife for a more textured result, or use a mortar and pestle for a traditional, rustic paste.
How long does homemade tapenade last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 2 weeks. Ensure it is covered with a thin layer of olive oil to preserve freshness.
What can I substitute for capers?
If you don’t have capers, chopped green olives or a small amount of chopped pickled jalapeño can provide a similar briny, tangy note.
My tapenade tastes too salty. How can I fix it?
Balance the saltiness by adding a touch more lemon zest or a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice. You can also blend in a few more unsalted ingredients like extra parsley or sun-dried tomatoes.
Can I use only one type of olive?
Absolutely. Using only Kalamata olives will give a richer, fruitier flavor, while only green olives will yield a brighter, more pungent tapenade. A mix provides complexity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-processing the mixture into a smooth paste; tapenade should have texture. Do not skip the pitting step, as olive pits can break your equipment. Be cautious with added salt—always taste after blending since olives and capers are inherently salty. Using stale or low-quality olive oil will negatively impact the final flavor, so opt for a good extra virgin variety. Finally, don’t let the garlic overpower the blend; one clove is typically sufficient.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Olive Tapenade is a testament to how simple, quality ingredients can create an extraordinary flavor experience. In just ten minutes, you have a sophisticated, versatile staple for your kitchen that elevates everything from casual snacks to elegant meals. Its bold, briny profile captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Make a batch today and discover the endless possibilities of this classic, healthy condiment.