Zesty Green Olive & Artichoke Spread
This Zesty Green Olive & Artichoke Spread is a delightful and savory blend of Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for spreading on crusty bread or as a vibrant addition to your charcuterie board, this tapenade combines briny olives with tender artichoke hearts and a touch of lemon for a refreshing taste. Ready in less than 15 minutes, it is a quick and elegant appetizer for any occasion.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
capers
3 (tablespoons, drained)
fresh parsley
1 (tablespoon, chopped)
fresh lemon juice
1 (tablespoon)
Dijon mustard
1 (teaspoon)
black pepper
1/2 (teaspoon)
green olives
10 (large, pitted)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
artichoke hearts
1 (14 ounce can, drained)
Instructions
1
1. Add the drained capers, chopped parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and black pepper to a food processor.
2
2. Add the pitted green olives, minced garlic cloves, and drained artichoke hearts.
3
3. Pulse the mixture in the food processor until the ingredients are evenly combined and reach your desired smoothness.
4
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer to a serving dish.
5
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Green Olive & Artichoke Spread?
It is a savory Mediterranean-inspired tapenade made with briny olives, tender artichoke hearts, and lemon.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
The spread is very quick and can be prepared in less than 15 minutes.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients include green olives, artichoke hearts, capers, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What equipment is needed?
You will need a food processor to combine the ingredients to the desired consistency.
Can I make this spread in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 days, which helps the flavors meld together.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with this spread?
It is perfect on crusty bread, crackers, or as a component of a charcuterie board.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is an easy, beginner-friendly recipe that involves simple pulsing in a food processor.
Do I need to cook the artichokes?
No, you should use canned artichoke hearts that have been drained.
What kind of olives are best for this spread?
Large pitted green olives are recommended for their briny flavor.
How do I adjust the texture?
You can pulse the food processor more for a smoother spread or less for a chunkier tapenade.
Is there any dairy in this recipe?
No, this is a dairy-free recipe.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe calls for 2 minced garlic cloves for the best flavor.
What gives the spread its 'zesty' flavor?
The combination of fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and capers provides the zesty kick.
Can I use dried parsley?
Fresh parsley is preferred for its vibrant taste, but dried can be used in a smaller amount if necessary.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients are naturally gluten-free; however, always check your Dijon mustard label to be sure.
How much black pepper should I add?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Do I need to add salt?
The olives and capers are naturally salty, so it is best to taste the mixture first before adding extra salt.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the most refreshing and bright flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is savory and briny rather than spicy.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes, herbs like oregano or basil can complement the Mediterranean flavors well.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients used in this spread.
Can this be used as a sandwich spread?
Yes, it makes an excellent and flavorful spread for sandwiches or wraps.
What is the serving size?
While specific measurements aren't listed, the total recipe is intended for 6 people.
Is this recipe suitable for a party?
Absolutely, it is described as an elegant appetizer for any occasion, including parties and brunch.
Should the capers be rinsed?
The recipe calls for them to be drained, but you can rinse them if you want to reduce the saltiness.
Can I freeze this spread?
It is not recommended to freeze it as the texture of the artichokes and olives may change significantly.
Can I use black olives instead?
Yes, you can substitute black olives, though it will change the color and provide a milder flavor profile.