This Olive Tapenade Recipe is a simple, bold, and flavorful Mediterranean spread that comes together in just minutes. Made with a combination of briny olives, fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil, tapenade is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or versatile condiment. Whether served with crusty bread, crackers, or used as a topping, this recipe delivers rich taste with minimal effort.
What Is Olive Tapenade?
Olive tapenade is a classic savory spread traditionally prepared by finely chopping olives and blending them with aromatics and seasonings. The result is a deeply flavorful mixture that balances saltiness, freshness, and richness. It is commonly enjoyed in Mediterranean cuisine and is known for its simplicity and versatility.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 5 minutes
- Made with easy-to-find ingredients
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan
- Perfect for entertaining or everyday meals
- Can be used in many different ways
Ingredients
- Green olives, pitted and drained
- Kalamata olives, pitted and drained
- Fresh parsley
- Garlic cloves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- White wine vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Drain the olives well to remove excess liquid. Peel the garlic cloves and roughly chop the parsley so it blends evenly.
Step 2: Add to Food Processor
Place the green olives, Kalamata olives, garlic, parsley, olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and oregano into a food processor.
Step 3: Pulse Until Combined
Pulse the mixture several times until everything is finely chopped and well combined. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. The texture should be slightly chunky, not completely smooth.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Taste the tapenade and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Pulse once or twice more to blend the seasoning evenly.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the olive tapenade to a serving bowl. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
How to Serve Olive Tapenade
- Spread on toasted baguette or crostini
- Serve with crackers or pita chips
- Use as a sandwich or wrap spread
- Spoon over grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables
- Stir into pasta or grain bowls for added flavor
Tips for Best Results
- Do not over-process; a slightly chunky texture gives the best mouthfeel
- Use good-quality olives for a richer flavor
- Adjust olive oil for a looser or thicker consistency
- Taste before adding salt, as olives can be naturally salty
Storage
Store olive tapenade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days. The flavor often improves after resting for a few hours, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
This Olive Tapenade Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create powerful flavors. Quick to make and endlessly versatile, it’s a must-have recipe for appetizers, snacks, and everyday meals. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.