Classic Kalamata Olive Tapenade

Name: Classic Kalamata Olive Tapenade
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups kalamata olives (pitted); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tablespoons capers (drained); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

15 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

Savory and tangy, this classic kalamata olive tapenade is perfect for breads and appetizers.

Prep

15 min

Total

15 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Kalamata olive tapenade is a beloved spread hailing from the Mediterranean region, known for its robust and tangy flavour. This versatile condiment is perfect for spreading on bread, adding to sandwiches, or serving as a dip with vegetables and crackers. Our version of kalamata olive tapenade is a balance of savoury olives, zesty capers, and aromatic garlic, all blended to create a smooth, rich paste. It's ideal for those who appreciate bold flavours and enjoy a quick, no-cook recipe.

Instructions

Prepare the olives

Rinse and drain the pitted kalamata olives to remove excess brine.

Pro tip: Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the tapenade.

Combine ingredients

In a food processor, combine the olives, minced garlic, and drained capers.

Add lemon juice

Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the mixture.

Pro tip: Lemon juice brightens the tapenade and enhances the olives' flavour.

Blend ingredients

Pulse the mixture in the food processor until coarsely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed.

Incorporate olive oil

Gradually add the olive oil while pulsing until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency.

Pro tip: For a smoother texture, blend longer and add a bit more oil.

Season and finish

Stir in the fresh thyme and black pepper, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality kalamata olives for the best flavour.
Adjust garlic to taste if you prefer a milder tapenade.
Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kalamata olive tapenade?

Kalamata olive tapenade is a Mediterranean spread made from pitted kalamata olives, capers, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings.

How do you store kalamata olive tapenade?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I make kalamata olive tapenade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge.

What should I serve with kalamata olive tapenade?

Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or use as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.

Is kalamata olive tapenade healthy?

It can be part of a healthy diet, offering healthy fats from olive oil and olives, though it should be consumed in moderation due to its sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this kalamata olive tapenade with warm, crusty bread, or use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light red. You can make this tapenade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure it's sealed in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavour.

Nutrition per serving

120

Calories

0.5g

Protein

12g

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