Savory Mediterranean Olive Tapenade
Dive into the rich, robust flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable olive tapenade. Combining the briny goodness of kalamata olives with the umami punch of anchovies and the tanginess of capers, this spread is not just a feast for your taste buds but also an easy-to-make addition to your appetizer repertoire. Perfect for spreading on crusty bread or as a savory finish to grilled meats, this tapenade is wonderfully versatile. Enhance the complexity by adding a splash of brandy for a hint of depth. With its simple preparation in a blender, this tapenade can be whipped up in no time and stored for a week, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for gatherings.
N/A
Servings
40
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Kalamata olives
400 g (pitted)
Garlic cloves
2 (crushed)
Anchovies
2 (packed in oil, drained)
Capers
2 tablespoons (in brine, rinsed & squeezed dry)
Fresh thyme
2 teaspoons (chopped)
Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons (none)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Olive oil
60 ml (none)
Brandy
1 tablespoon (optional)
Instructions
1
Begin by pitting the kalamata olives if not already pitted.
2
In a food processor, combine the pitted olives, crushed garlic cloves, drained anchovies, rinsed capers, chopped fresh thyme, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
3
Pulse the mixture until it starts to break down, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to blend until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency—smooth yet slightly chunky.
4
For an additional layer of flavor, mix in the brandy if desired.
5
Taste the tapenade and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper according to your preference.
6
Transfer the tapenade to a clean jar. Cover with a layer of olive oil, seal, and store in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Information
3.3g
Fat
0.7g
Carbs
0.3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Mediterranean Olive Tapenade?
It is a rich, robust spread made from Kalamata olives, anchovies, capers, and herbs, perfect for appetizers.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The core ingredients include Kalamata olives, garlic, anchovies, capers, fresh thyme, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil.
What kind of olives should I use?
This recipe specifically calls for 400g of Kalamata olives, which provide a distinct briny flavor.
How do I prepare the olives?
You should pit the Kalamata olives before combining them with other ingredients in the food processor.
Can I make this tapenade in a blender?
Yes, the recipe notes that this tapenade can be easily whipped up in a blender or food processor.
What is the suggested serving size for this tapenade?
While specific serving sizes vary, one serving contains approximately 40 calories.
How long does it take to make?
It is a quick recipe that involves pulsing ingredients together, making it a fast addition to any meal.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
The recipe contains anchovies, but it can be made vegan by omitting them or using a plant-based substitute.
How should I store the tapenade?
Store it in a clean jar, cover with a layer of olive oil, seal tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator.
How long will the tapenade stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, the tapenade can be kept for up to one week.
What can I serve with olive tapenade?
It is delicious spread on crusty bread, used as a bruschetta topping, or served as a savory finish to grilled meats.
Why is brandy included in the recipe?
Brandy is an optional ingredient that adds an extra layer of complexity and depth to the flavor profile.
What provides the 'umami' flavor in this dish?
The combination of Kalamata olives and anchovies provides a strong umami punch.
Do I need to rinse the capers?
Yes, the recipe recommends rinsing the capers and squeezing them dry before use.
What is the nutritional content per serving?
Each serving has 40 calories, 3.3g of fat, 0.7g of carbohydrates, and 0.3g of protein.
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
While fresh thyme is recommended for the best flavor, you can use a smaller amount of dried thyme if fresh is unavailable.
What kind of olive oil is best?
A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is typically preferred for Mediterranean spreads like tapenade.
How do I achieve the right consistency?
Pulse the mixture and slowly drizzle in olive oil until it is smooth yet slightly chunky.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your mustard and brandy labels.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 crushed garlic cloves.
Can I adjust the saltiness?
Yes, the recipe advises tasting and adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper at the end of preparation.
What is the role of lemon juice in the tapenade?
Lemon juice provides a necessary tanginess that balances the saltiness of the olives and anchovies.
Is this a good party food?
Absolutely; it is categorized as a party food and a healthy appetizer that can be made in advance.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
No, the nutritional profile indicates that there is no sugar in this tapenade.
What kind of mustard is used?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard.
Can I use this as a gift?
Yes, because it stores well in a jar, it makes a lovely homemade gift for food lovers.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 9 ingredients used in this Savory Mediterranean Olive Tapenade.
Is it necessary to use a layer of olive oil for storage?
Yes, covering the surface with olive oil helps preserve the freshness and prevents the top from drying out.
Is this tapenade keto-friendly?
Yes, with only 0.7g of carbohydrates and a high fat content from olives and oil, it is very keto-friendly.
Can I substitute the Kalamata olives?
You can use other oil-cured or black olives, but the flavor profile will change from the traditional Mediterranean style.