Black Olive Tapenade: Olive Paste the French Way

This tapenade is a classic French condiment, perfect for adding a rich and savory flavor to your appetizers or meals. Serve the tapenade with bread and vegetables of your choice.

Notes

Here are some variations to make this easy black olive tapenade recipe suit you:

Swap the pitted black olives for green olives to make a green olive tapenade.
Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Use different fresh herbs like fresh basil leaves, oregano, or marjoram.
Swap the anchovy fillets for two teaspoons of anchovy paste.
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Swap the lemon juice for white vinegar or red wine vinegar.
Add a ¼ cup of sundried tomatoes (in oil) for an Italian tapenade.

FAQs

What is olive tapenade?

Olive tapenade is a famed olive spread hailing from Provence, France. It’s made by finely chopping or blending olives and capers with olive oil to create a paste.

What is black olive tapenade made from?

The two essential ingredients in black olive tapenade are capers and black olives. The three other common ingredients are herbs, garlic, and anchovies.

Is tapenade Italian or French?

Tapenade is a French olive spread. Its name comes from the French Provencal word for capers (tapenas), one of the main ingredients.

Is olive tapenade the same as pesto?

While both black olive tapenade and pesto can be used as dips and spreads, that’s where the similarities end. Tapenade is an olive and caper-based spread, while pesto is basil-based.

What is the difference between tapenade and hummus?

Tapenade and hummus are completely different spreads. Tapenade is an olive spread, while chickpeas are the main ingredient in hummus.

Is black olive tapenade good for you?

Black olive tapenade incorporates several essential ingredients of the Mediterranean Dietincluding garlic, herbs, olives, and olive oil. While it offers many nutrients, it should still be consumed in moderation.

What does olive tapenade taste like?

Olive tapenade has a strong briny and salty flavor, thanks to the olives and capers, but the anchovies add an umami (savory) flavor.

Is this tapenade recipe vegan?

Omit the anchovies, and yes, this is a vegan tapenade recipe. It’s already dairy-free and gluten-free.

What do you eat olive tapenade with?

Kalamata olive tapenade is a versatile spread:

Spread it on toasted baguette slices, crostini, crackers, or toasted pita chips for an appetizer.
Spread it on your sandwich.
Use it as a pizza or pasta sauce.
Add a scoop to your salad.
Fold it into an omelet or add it as a topping on fried eggs for breakfast.
Add it as a topping on grilled fish or chicken.
Enjoy it on a mezze platter or charcuterie board with fresh vegetables, deli meats, cheese, nuts, homemade pita bread, whipped fetaor hummus.

How long does an opened tapenade last in the fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, homemade olive tapenade will last in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze it for six months, although this can change the texture. Serve the tapenade chilled or at room temperature.