Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our Easy Greek Olive Tapenade! This quick and delicious spread is not only a feast for the senses but also a game-changer for your appetizer game. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this tapenade is packed with savory olives, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs that will have your taste buds dancing. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this versatile dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pita chips, or even as a sandwich spread. Ready to elevate your snacking experience? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed olives, pitted
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain the pitted olives thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a better texture for the tapenade.
- Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves to prepare them for blending.
- Place the pitted olives, capers, chopped garlic, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dried oregano into a food processor or blender.
- Pulse the ingredients in short bursts, scraping down the sides of the processor with a spatula between pulses to ensure even mixing.
- Continue processing until the mixture reaches a coarse, chunky consistency - avoid over-blending to maintain some texture.
- Taste the tapenade and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed, keeping in mind that olives are already quite salty.
- Transfer the tapenade to a serving bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve with crusty bread, pita chips, or as a spread on sandwiches and appetizers. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose Quality Olives: For the best flavor, opt for a mix of high-quality olives. Kalamata and green olives work wonderfully together, providing a balance of taste and texture.
- Prep Your Ingredients: Make sure to drain and dry the olives thoroughly to achieve a perfect consistency in your tapenade. Excess moisture can lead to a watery spread.
- Pulse, Don’t Blend: When processing the ingredients, use short pulses to maintain a chunky texture. Over-blending can turn your tapenade into a smooth paste, losing that delightful bite.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your tapenade before serving. The saltiness of the olives can vary, so adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper accordingly.
- Let It Rest: Allow the tapenade to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes after preparing. This resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store your tapenade in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 5 days, making it a perfect make-ahead option for entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
