Save to Pinterest A festive, savory Mediterranean spread of briny black olives blended with capers, anchovies, and herbs, served atop crisp, golden crostini perfect for sharing at your New Years Eve celebration.
This recipe has become a staple at our holiday parties because it combines bold flavors with effortless prep. Guests always ask for seconds and the leftovers vanish quickly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pitted black olives: Kalamata or Niçoise preferred
- 2 tablespoons capers: drained
- 4 anchovy fillets in oil: drained (optional for vegetarian omit for vegan)
- 2 cloves garlic: peeled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice:
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves: or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil:
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- 1 baguette: sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil:
- 1 garlic clove: halved for rubbing
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Step 2:
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet Brush both sides lightly with olive oil
- Step 3:
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes turning halfway until golden and crisp Remove from oven and rub the top of each crostini with the cut side of the garlic clove Set aside to cool
- Step 4:
- In a food processor combine the black olives capers anchovy fillets (if using) garlic parsley lemon juice and thyme Pulse several times until coarsely chopped
- Step 5:
- With the processor running slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes a coarse paste Scrape down the sides as needed
- Step 6:
- Season to taste with black pepper and adjust lemon juice if desired
- Step 7:
- Transfer tapenade to a serving bowl Serve with prepared crostini
Save to Pinterest Sharing this tapenade with family and friends has created many cherished moments especially during festive gatherings and celebrations.
Required Tools
Food processor Baking sheet Pastry brush Sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (baguette) fish (anchovies) May contain traces of wheat or fish depending on ingredient brands If unsure check labels or substitute with gluten-free bread and omit anchovies for fish-free option
Nutritional Information
Calories 190 Total Fat 11 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 3 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This black olive tapenade is a perfect appetizer that can be easily customized to suit dietary preferences.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of olives work best?
Kalamata or Niçoise olives are preferred for their rich, briny flavor and firm texture.
- → Can anchovies be omitted?
Yes, omitting anchovies keeps it vegetarian; adding miso paste or soy sauce can enhance umami for vegan versions.
- → How should crostini be prepared?
Sliced baguette rounds are lightly brushed with olive oil, baked until golden, then rubbed with garlic for added aroma.
- → How can the tapenade be stored?
Store chilled in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- → What beverages pair well with this spread?
Crisp sparkling wines or dry rosés complement the salty and herbal notes perfectly.
- → Is this suitable for vegan diets?
By omitting anchovies and adding extra capers plus miso or soy sauce, this can be made vegan-friendly.