By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on February 27, 2023 | Last Updated on August 19, 2023
Kalamata olive tapenade is a rich and flavorful spread made from olives, garlic, capers, lemon juice, and olive oil. It has a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with bread or crackers for an easy appetizer or snack.
The tangy taste of the kalamata olives and the salty capers make this dish truly memorable. This is basically the Greek version of pesto. This recipe is famous in Greece and the Mediterranean region.
In this article, we’ll share what kalamata olive tapenade tastes like, how to make it, and what to serve with it. We’ll also provide a few tips for making the perfect tapenade every time! So, keep reading!
What is kalamata olive tapenade?
Kalamata olive tapenade is a Mediterranean spread made from kalamata olives, garlic, capers, olive oil and lemon juice. Its hearty flavor makes it the perfect accompaniment to crackers or bread, creating an effortless appetizer or snack for any occasion.
The olive tapenade is a great way to enjoy the flavor of olives without having to eat them straight from the jar. It is called tapenade because, in French it means “tapa” or cap. The shape of the tapenade is similar to capers.
What does it taste like?
Kalamata olive tapenade has a bold, salty flavor, slightly tart from the lemon juice. The garlic adds an aromatic note, while the capers add a salty kick to each bite.
The texture of the spread can vary depending on how finely you chop everything in the food processor but it should be slightly chunky. You can also adjust the seasonings to your taste.
How did I first get introduced to the kalamata olive tapenade?
I first tasted kalamata olive tapenade while visiting friends in Greece. It was served as a spread with warm pita bread, and it quickly became my favorite appetizer. The combination of flavors was so unique and flavorful that I had to try making it home!
How to make kalamata olive tapenade?
Making kalamata olive tapenade is a fairly simple process. All you need are some fresh ingredients and a food processor to quickly blend everything together. Here’s what you need to get started:
Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons capers
- salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
Place the garlic, olives, parsley, capers, lemon juice and olive oil in a food processor.
Step 2
Pulse until everything is finely chopped and combined.
Step 3
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4
Serve or store in an airtight container for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Tips
• You can also make this tapenade by hand using a mortar and pestle instead of a food processor.
• For extra flavor, try adding some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or oregano to your tapenade.
• If you are making this ahead of time, leave out the lemon juice until just before serving. This will help prevent the tapenade from becoming too tart. You can also add more olive oil to the tapenade if you’d like a smoother texture.
Kalamata olive tapenade Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Food processor
Ingredients
- 1.5 cloves of fresh garlic peeled and minced, releasing its aromatic essence to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice adding a zesty and citrusy kick, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- 1.5 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley sourced from the finest herbs, adding a vibrant green color and a burst of freshness to the dish.
- 1/2 cup of premium pitted Kalamata olives carefully selected for their rich, briny taste and meaty texture.
- 1 tablespoon of flavorful capers providing a tangy and salty note, elevating the complexity of the dish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper expertly measured to bring out the natural flavors and create a harmonious balance in this exquisite Mediterranean dish.
- 1 tablespoon of rich and robust extra virgin olive oil sourced from the highest quality olives, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture in the dressing.
Instructions
- Place the garlic, olives, parsley, capers, lemon juice and olive oil in a food processor.
- Pulse until everything is finely chopped and combined.
- Pulse until everything is finely chopped and combined.
- Serve or store in an airtight container for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Kalamata olive tapenade is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. It contains healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One serving (2 tablespoons) of kalamata olive tapenade contains approximately:
• 65 calories
• 5 grams of fat
• 2 grams of carbohydrates
• 1 gram of protein
• 0 milligrams of sodium
• 2% of the daily value of vitamin E
What to serve with kalamata olive tapenade?
Kalamata olive tapenade is a delicious accompaniment to many dishes, such as roasted vegetables, grilled meats or fish, salads, pasta dishes and even sandwiches!
You can also use it as a dip for crackers or bread or spread it on toast with cream cheese. You can also use it as a topping for pizza, bruschetta or roasted potatoes.
How to store leftover kalamata olive tapenade?
Leftover kalamata olive tapenade can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To thaw, simply place the frozen tapenade in the refrigerator overnight.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can safely eat kalamata olive tapenade as long as the ingredients are fresh and haven’t been sitting out for too long. It is always best to check with your healthcare provider before consuming any food when pregnant. It is even more important to follow safe food handling and storage guidelines.
FAQs
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese from the recipe.
Is kalamata olive tapenade gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, ensure the bread and crackers you serve it with are also gluten-free.
Is kalamata olive tapenade low in fat?
Yes, this recipe is relatively low in fat, as most calories come from healthy fats such as olive oil and olives. One serving (2 tablespoons) has 5 grams of fat.
Wrapping Up
Kalamata olive tapenade is a delicious and easy way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this Mediterranean staple in no time!
Serve it with bread or crackers as an appetizer, top roasted vegetables or grilled meats with it, or use it as a spread on sandwiches. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Thanks for reading this guide on making kalamata olive tapenade! I hope you found it helpful and delicious. Please share it with your friends and family. Bon appétit!
Please share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Happy Cooking!
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
