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Green Olive Tapenade

Green Olive Tapenade

Green Olive Tapenade is a quick and flavorful Mediterranean spread that combines briny green olives, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon juice. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, it adds a salty, savory punch to bread, veggies, or grilled dishes, and can be made in minutes for last-minute gatherings or healthy snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup pitted green olives
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Variations

  • 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (in place of green olives)
  • 2 anchovy fillets
  • Fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Rinse and dry the green olives, pitting them if necessary. Finely mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley to release their flavors and aromas.
  2. Combine the Base: In a food processor or mixing bowl, add the green olives, capers, garlic, and parsley. Pulse or mix gently to combine while retaining some texture for an interesting mouthfeel.
  3. Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the fresh lemon juice and gradually drizzle in the olive oil while stirring or blending until the tapenade reaches your preferred consistency—either slightly chunky or smooth.
  4. Season to Taste: Sprinkle with black pepper and taste the mixture, adjusting the lemon juice or olive oil as needed to balance the salty, tangy, and fresh flavors.

Notes

  • Choose high-quality, fresh green olives without preservatives for the best flavor.
  • Do not over-process to maintain some texture in the tapenade.
  • Let the tapenade rest in the fridge for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld.
  • Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for brightness and freshness.
  • Add olive oil gradually to control texture and richness perfectly.

Nutrition

Keywords: green olive tapenade, Mediterranean appetizer, olive spread, healthy snack, vegan dip