Tapenade is a flavorful Mediterranean spread made primarily from olives, capers, and olive oil. It’s perfect for serving as an appetizer with crusty bread, crackers, or as a condiment for sandwiches and grilled meats. This classic recipe is simple and quick to prepare.
Ingredients
• 1 cup pitted olives (black, green, or a mix)
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme), chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
If using whole olives, ensure they are pitted. You can use a mix of black and green olives for a more complex flavor.
2. Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor, combine the olives, capers, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard (if using). Pulse a few times to start breaking down the ingredients.
3. Add Olive Oil:
With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. You can make it smooth or leave it a little chunky, depending on your preference.
4. Season:
Taste the tapenade and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, add fresh herbs for additional flavor.
5. Chill:
Transfer the tapenade to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
6. Serve:
Serve the tapenade with crusty bread, crackers, or as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables. Enjoy!
Aprile's Kitchen 