Olive tapenade – the rich, savory spread that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Made from Kalamata olives, capers, garlic, and olive oil, this Provençal delight is a staple in many a French kitchen. But why stop at just one flavor combination? With its versatility as a dip, sandwich filling, or pasta topping, olive tapenade lends itself perfectly to experimentation. And that’s exactly what we’ve done – gathered 18 mouthwatering recipes that put a Mediterranean twist on this classic condiment.
From the bold and spicy to the subtle and herbaceous, each of these recipes showcases the incredible range of flavors you can achieve with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping appetizer, there’s something here for everyone. So let’s dive in and explore the world of olive tapenade, Mediterranean-style!
Classic Kalamata Olive Tapenade with Capers
A flavorful and aromatic tapenade that combines the richness of Kalamata olives with the tanginess of capers, perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup green capers, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine olives, capers, garlic, and salt.
2. Process until the mixture is coarsely chopped and well combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue processing until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 10 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your snacking game with this flavorful tapenade, perfect for crackers, crostini, or as a dip. This sun-dried tomato and olive combination is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and lemon juice. Process until coarsely chopped.
2. Add salt and process for another second or two, just to combine.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This tapenade is ready to enjoy straight away.
Green Olive and Almond Tapenade
This Green Olive and Almond Tapenade is a flavorful and aromatic spread perfect for crackers, bread, or as a dip for vegetables. With its vibrant green color and nutty undertones, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup blanched almonds, toasted and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olives, almonds, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the mixture is well combined and has a smooth consistency.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Spicy Harissa Olive Tapenade
Elevate your appetizer game with this bold and aromatic tapenade, perfect for snacking or serving alongside crackers or bread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup harissa pepper paste
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the chopped olives, harissa pepper paste, and garlic.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while stirring with a spoon until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and chill before serving.
Roasted Garlic and Black Olive Tapenade
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and savory tapenade, perfect for crackers, bread, or as a dip. The combination of roasted garlic and black olives creates a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cloves of garlic
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, sliced green olives, chopped Kalamata olives, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend until smooth and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting time) + 5 minutes (blending)
Artichoke and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your appetizers with this rich and savory tapenade, perfect for crackers, crostini, or as a dip. This flavorful spread combines the earthy sweetness of artichokes with the brininess of olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, green olives, Kalamata olives, and garlic.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the oil-lemon mixture over the artichoke-olive mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold preparation.
Lemon Zest and Herb Olive Tapenade
Elevate your appetizer game with this bright and citrusy twist on traditional olive tapenade.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine olives, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
2. Mix until well combined and the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This tapenade is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Feta-Stuffed Olive Tapenade
This classic Provençal spread gets a creamy twist with the addition of crumbly feta cheese, perfect for serving alongside crackers or vegetables. With its rich flavors and elegant presentation, it’s sure to impress at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted green olives, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped olives, capers, garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Add cream cheese and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the tapenade into small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets.
5. Top each ramekin with a dollop of crumbled feta cheese.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Balsamic Fig and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your snack or appetizer game with this rich and flavorful Balsamic Fig and Olive Tapenade. This sweet and savory spread combines the natural sweetness of figs, the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, and the brininess of olives.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives (such as Cerignola or Castelvetrano)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh figs
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olives, figs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
4. Continue blending until well combined and slightly thickened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pistachio and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your charcuterie board or crudités with this rich and savory tapenade, featuring the perfect balance of pistachios and olives.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives
– 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine olives, pistachios, and garlic.
2. Process until the mixture is coarsely chopped, with some texture remaining.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue processing until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Anchovy and Olive Tapenade
This rich and savory tapenade is a perfect accompaniment to crackers, bread, or as a dip for vegetables. The combination of salty anchovies and briny olives creates a flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine olives, anchovies, and garlic. Process until coarsely chopped.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
3. Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pulse until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: Allow the tapenade to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy!
Roasted Red Pepper and Olive Tapenade
Roasted Red Pepper and Olive Tapenade Recipe
Summary: This tapenade recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory flavor of Kalamata olives, perfect for a flavorful condiment to elevate your sandwiches, crackers, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly toasted garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and tender.
4. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. Peel the peppers, discarding the skin, and place them in a food processor.
6. Add the chopped olives, toasted garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the processor.
7. Process until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (roasting time)
Orange and Rosemary Olive Tapenade
This sweet and savory tapenade combines the brightness of orange zest with the earthiness of rosemary, perfect for topping crackers or crostini. A delicious twist on traditional olive tapenade!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the green and Kalamata olives.
2. Add the orange juice, orange zest, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped rosemary.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None!
Smoky Paprika Olive Tapenade
Elevate your snacking game with this flavorful tapenade that combines the richness of olives with a smoky kick from paprika. This savory spread is perfect for crackers, crostini, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine olives, garlic, and smoked paprika.
2. Process until the mixture is coarsely chopped, leaving some texture intact.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue processing until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency, adding salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble and serve.
Walnut and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your snack game with this rich and savory walnut and olive tapenade, perfect for crackers, bread, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine olives, walnuts, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Process until the mixture is smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue processing until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chili Flake and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your appetizers or snacks with this simple yet flavorful Chili Flake and Olive Tapenade recipe, combining the boldness of chili flakes and the richness of olive tapenade.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olives, olive oil, capers, garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer tapenade to a serving bowl or jar.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Basil Pesto Olive Tapenade
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and aromatic tapenade, perfect for crackers, crostini, or as a dip. This recipe combines the brightness of basil pesto with the savory richness of olives.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto (see our basil pesto recipe)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine the pitted green olives, basil pesto, and garlic. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly smooth.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Continue processing until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the tapenade to a serving bowl or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a cold process recipe.
Caramelized Onion and Olive Tapenade
Transform ordinary crackers or bread into a gourmet snack with this rich and flavorful tapenade. Caramelized onions add a depth of sweetness, while Kalamata olives bring a salty punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
2. Add the chopped olives, garlic, and olive oil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the tapenade cool before serving. Use as a dip or spread on crackers or bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 18 savory olive tapenade recipes! From classic combinations like Kalamata olives and capers to more adventurous pairings like sun-dried tomatoes and harissa peppers, there’s something for every palate. Try adding roasted garlic and black olives for a rich and earthy flavor or give the artichoke and olive combination a go for a sweet and savory twist. With ingredients from around the Mediterranean, these recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed coast of Greece or the rolling hills of Italy.
