Save 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.
I have always enjoyed making this tapenade for gatherings it never fails to impress my guests with its rich flavors.
Ingredients
- Black Olive Tapenade: 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
- Crostini: 1 baguette sliced into 1/2-inch rounds, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 garlic clove halved (for rubbing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare crostini:
- Arrange baguette slices on baking sheet brush both sides lightly with olive oil bake for 8 to 10 minutes turning halfway until golden and crisp remove and rub top of each with cut side of garlic clove set aside to cool.
- Make tapenade:
- Combine black olives capers anchovy fillets (if using) garlic parsley lemon juice and thyme in food processor pulse until coarsely chopped with processor running slowly drizzle in olive oil until mixture becomes coarse paste scrape down sides as needed.
- Season:
- Add freshly ground black pepper and adjust lemon juice if desired.
- Serve:
- Transfer tapenade to serving bowl serve with prepared crostini.
Save This recipe brings back fond memories of sharing small bites with family on special occasions.
Recommended Pairings
Pairs wonderfully with crisp sparkling wine or a dry rosé adding a festive touch to your meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftover tapenade in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for best freshness.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten from baguette and fish from anchovies omit anchovies for vegetarian and vegan options consider gluten-free bread if needed.
Save This black olive tapenade elevates any appetizer spread with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I make this without anchovies?
Yes, omitting anchovies turns the blend vegetarian. For vegan depth, consider adding miso paste or soy sauce to enhance flavor.
- → How should crostini be prepared for optimal crispness?
Sliced baguette rounds are lightly brushed with olive oil and baked at 400°F until golden and crisp, then rubbed with garlic for extra aroma.
- → Can the tapenade be stored in advance?
Yes, the tapenade can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container refrigerated for up to a day, allowing flavors to meld.
- → What wines pair well with this spread?
Crisp sparkling wines or dry rosés complement the briny, herbaceous notes beautifully.
- → Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
Fresh parsley and thyme bring brightness, but dried thyme can be used in smaller amounts if needed.