Black Olive Tapenade

Black Olive Tapenade

  • Prep time: 5
  • Cook time: 5
  • Yield: 8
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Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup pitted black olives
  • 1 tablespoon capers, drained
  • 2 anchovy fillets, drained
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 5 basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, marjoram, or thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Nutrition Facts
Serves 8

Description

Black Olive Tapenade: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

What is Black Olive Tapenade?

Black olive tapenade is a classic Mediterranean condiment that originates from the Provence region of France. It is a robust and flavorful spread made primarily from black olives, capers, garlic, anchovies (optional), and olive oil. The ingredients are finely chopped or blended together to create a chunky or smooth paste, depending on personal preference.

Ingredients:

  • Black olives (typically Kalamata or Niçoise olives)
  • Capers
  • Garlic
  • Anchovies (optional, for added depth of flavor)
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
  • Lemon juice (optional)

What is it Good For?

  1. Appetizer or Starter:

    • Black olive tapenade is a fantastic appetizer when spread on crusty bread, crostini, or crackers. Its bold and savory flavors make it an ideal introduction to a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

  2. Condiment for Proteins:

    • It serves as an excellent condiment for various proteins, such as grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. The briny and umami-rich profile enhances the overall taste of the main dish.

  3. Pasta Sauce:

    • Incorporate black olive tapenade into pasta dishes for an instant burst of flavor. Toss it with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese for a quick and delicious Mediterranean pasta.

  4. Sandwich Spread:

    • Elevate your sandwiches by spreading black olive tapenade on bread or as a flavorful addition to wraps and paninis. It pairs well with a variety of cheeses, vegetables, and deli meats.

  5. Pizza Topping:

    • Use it as a pizza topping or a base sauce for a Mediterranean twist. Combine it with other ingredients like feta, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes for a unique and flavorful pizza experience.

  6. Salad Dressing:

    • Blend black olive tapenade with olive oil and a touch of lemon juice to create a flavorful salad dressing. Drizzle it over mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta for a Mediterranean salad.

  7. Stuffed Vegetables:

    • Fill hollowed-out vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms with black olive tapenade for a tasty and visually appealing appetizer or side dish.

  8. Dip for Crudites:

    • Serve black olive tapenade as a dip for fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper strips. It adds a savory kick to raw veggies.

  9. Grilled Veggie Marinade:

    • Use it as a marinade or finishing sauce for grilled vegetables. The bold flavors complement the smokiness from the grill, creating a delightful side dish.

  10. Flavor Boost for Sauces:

    • Mix black olive tapenade into tomato-based sauces for pasta or as a flavor enhancer for braised dishes. It adds depth and complexity to the overall sauce.

In essence, black olive tapenade is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Its briny, savory, and slightly tangy profile makes it a go-to ingredient for those looking to add a taste of the Mediterranean to their culinary creations.

Instructions

  • 1. Combine all ingredients except lemon juice and olive oil in a food processor and process into a chopped paste.
  • 2. Process in lemon juice. With the processor running, drizzle in olive oil until a spreadable paste is formed.