Sunshine in a Jar Classic Provençal Tapenade

Sunshine in a Jar My Provençal Tapenade Recipe

By Sarah Chen-MartinezJuly 6, 2025

Craving a taste of the Mediterranean My Tapenade Recipe brings sunshine to your table Easy olive spread with Kalamata olives a secret anchovy kick Get the recipe ... Quick & Easy Weeknight Meals

Table of Contents

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Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever feel like you're missing a bit of sunshine in your life? This tapenade recipe is your ticket! It's bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors. Seriously, it's like a holiday in a jar.

Brief Overview

This olive tapenade recipe comes straight from Provence. It's ridiculously easy and takes only 15 minutes. You’ll get about 1 1/2 cups of pure deliciousness.

Think of it as a quick trip to the South of France.

Main Benefits

The Mediterranean olive dip is packed with healthy fats. It is perfect for your next cocktail party. Honestly, this Tapenade recipe is so simple and tasty.

I’m sure, it will become your go-to appetizer.

What is Tapenade Anyway?

Tapenade is so much more than just an olive spread . It is an amazing spread. It is a flavour explosion.

Imagine briny olives, salty capers, and garlic, all blended together. It tastes like sunshine. You know? It's a classic for a reason.

This amazing recipe is the heart of summer!

Sunshine in a Jar Classic Provençal Tapenade presentation

Making the Magic Happen: Your Provençal Tapenade Recipe

This Provençal Tapenade Recipe is dead simple. No cooking is required. Basically, you chop and blend. Seriously, that's all there is to it.

A bit of chopping, a quick whizz in the food processor.

Is Anchovy Tapenade Something For You?

Okay, listen, the anchovy tapenade option might scare some folks. Honestly, don’t freak out!. It adds a salty depth. But, of course, if you are totally against it, you can skip it.

No judgement here.

Why this Olive Tapenade Recipe Rocks

This isn't just another Olive Tapenade Recipe . This recipe uses top-quality olives. It emphasizes the balance between salty and bright.

Ingredients & Equipment for your Tapenade Recipe

Want to make a killer olive tapenade ? You need the right gear. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty basic! Let's dive in to what makes the Provençal Tapenade Recipe so tasty.

Main Players

1 cup (170g) pitted Kalamata olives , chopped. Get the good ones, like proper wrinkly ones, you know?
1/2 cup (85g) pitted green olives, chopped. Castelvetrano are ace if you can find them.
2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus extra. Splurge on the oil here. It makes a difference. The olive tapenade recipe deserves the best.
2 tablespoons (30g) capers, rinsed. These little salty bombs are key.
2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh is best.
2 anchovy fillets, optional but recommended! Honestly, they add magic.
1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice. Gotta have that zing!
1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) Dijon mustard. Trust me.
1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) dried Herbes de Provence. Or Italian seasoning works too.
Black pepper, to taste.

Seasoning Secrets

Okay, so the Herbes de Provence are important. But don’t stress too much. If you're missing them, Italian seasoning works alright.

Or even just some dried oregano and thyme. The saltiness of the olives and capers is the star. So, taste as you go.

You may not need any extra salt. These essential spice combinations ensure a perfect olive spread every time.

Essential Kit

Food processor. Small one’s fine.
Chopping board and knife. Obviously.
Measuring spoons and cups. For properness.
Rubber spatula. To scrape the bowl clean (crucial).
Airtight container. For storing your yummy tapenade .

Seriously, that's all you need. No fancy gadgets, just simple stuff. Ready to make some sunshine in a jar ? This easy appetizer recipe will blow your mind! This Mediterranean Olive Dip is perfect for any occasion.

Sunshine in a Jar: Let's Make Tapenade!

Honestly, have you ever tried tapenade ? It's like a Mediterranean party in your mouth. This Olive Tapenade recipe is dead easy, even if you're not a whizz in the kitchen.

Picture this: sunshine, crusty bread, and a bowl of this deliciousness. Seriously, what's not to love? It is very simple, don't worry!

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

Get your stuff together first. Chop those olives and mince that garlic. I'm talking about 1 cup (170g) Kalamata olives and 1/2 cup (85g) green olives.

Roughly is fine! Think of it as rustic. Rinse those 2 tablespoons (30g) capers too. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way.

It saves time and helps you focus. This Olive Spread is gonna be amazing.

Making Magic: The Tapenade Step-by-Step

Chop those olives like you mean it!
Chuck the olives, 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, capers, 2 minced garlic cloves, and those 2 anchovy fillets (optional, but SO good) into the food processor. Add 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) Dijon mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) Herbes de Provence.
Pulse it. Don't puree! You want some texture.
Taste! Add more lemon if it needs a zing, or pepper for a kick.
Pop it in a jar and drizzle with olive oil. Refrigerate. This Provençal Tapenade Recipe gets better over time!

Pro Tapenade Tips from Moi

Don't skimp on the olive oil. Good stuff makes a difference. Avoid over-processing, nobody likes mushy Olive Tapenade . Want maximum flavor? Make this Mediterranean Olive Dip the day before.

The flavours will develop overnight, and it will blow your socks off. It is an Easy Appetizer Recipe

One time, I forgot the capers. Disaster! Don't be like me. Capers add a necessary salty kick. You know? Serve this Kalamata Olive Spread on crusty bread, crackers or even mix it in pasta.

It's sunshine in a jar, I tell ya. And if you are on the fence about anchovies, add a little less so it gets better!

Recipe Notes for the Perfect Tapenade

This tapenade recipe is more than just a recipe. Honestly, it's an experience! These notes will help you nail it. Let's dive in.

Serving Suggestions: Unleash the Mediterranean Vibe

Thinking of serving? Plating is key! Rustic is best. Think a simple bowl. Drizzle with extra olive oil. Maybe a sprig of rosemary.

For sides, keep it simple. Crusty bread, obviously. Veggie sticks are great. Even a glass of crisp white wine! This Olive Tapenade recipe works with so many things.

Think picnics in Provence, even if you're just in your back garden!

Storage Tips: Keep That Sunshine Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Refrigerate your Olive Tapenade in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 5 days . Drizzle some olive oil on top to keep it moist.

Freezing? Not really recommended. It can change the texture. Reheating isn't an issue, as it's served cold.

Variations: Tapenade Your Way!

Fancy a twist? For a dietary adaptation, skip the anchovies for a vegan version. It still tastes amazing! Just add a bit more salt for flavour.

Seasonal swaps? In summer, add a few fresh basil leaves. Adds a lovely brightness! This Provençal Tapenade Recipe is all about adapting.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Let's keep it real, this tapenade is tasty and good for you. Each serving is about 120 calories . You're getting healthy fats from the olives.

This Mediterranean Olive Dip is a source of antioxidants. Also, the olive oil is good for your heart. Basically, it's delicious and good for you. What's not to love?

So there you have it. Some easy ideas and adaptions to make your Anchovy Tapenade your way. You are ready to try this fantastic recipe and create your Olive Spread , or a fantastic Kalamata Olive Spread and make it a hit with your guest! Don't be afraid to experiment.

Get in the kitchen, get creative, and enjoy! You got this!

Olive Tapenade Recipe A Taste of Provence in Every Bite

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is tapenade, anyway? It sounds a bit fancy!

Tapenade is a savoury spread originating from Provence, in the South of France, which is a region known for their culinary expertise! Think of it as olive sunshine in a jar, generally made with olives, capers, anchovies, and olive oil, all blended together. It's typically served as a spread for bread or crackers, or used as a flavourful addition to other dishes. It's like the Mediterranean's answer to a good old British chutney!

I'm not a huge fan of anchovies. Can I still make this tapenade recipe?

Absolutely! While anchovies add a delicious salty, umami depth to tapenade, they're not essential. You can omit them entirely for a completely vegetarian/vegan version. However, if you're feeling adventurous, try just one fillet to start – you might be surprised at how much flavour they add without being overly "fishy." A pinch of extra sea salt can help mimic some of that savoury goodness if you skip them.

How long does tapenade last, and what's the best way to store it?

Tapenade, if stored properly, will keep in the refrigerator for about a week. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. A top tip is to drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top before sealing the container; this helps to preserve it and prevent it from drying out. Just like a good cheese, the flavours often meld and deepen after a day or two in the fridge!

My tapenade turned out too bitter! What did I do wrong, and how can I fix it?

Bitterness in tapenade can often be attributed to the type of olives used or over-processing. Some olives are naturally more bitter than others. Try using a milder variety like Kalamata or Castelvetrano. If you have already made the tapenade, you can try balancing the bitterness with a squeeze of extra lemon juice or a tiny touch of honey or sugar. Avoid over-processing as well, as this can release bitter compounds from the olives.

Can I freeze tapenade? I made way too much!

Yes, you can freeze tapenade, although the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Spoon it into ice cube trays for convenient, individual portions, or freeze it in a small, airtight container. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Be aware that the texture might be a little softer, but the flavour will still be fantastic. Use it as a stirred-in sauce, on toast, or for pasta.

What are some creative ways to use this tapenade recipe other than just spreading it on bread?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! Tapenade is surprisingly versatile. Stir a spoonful into pasta for a quick and flavourful sauce, like a posh Mediterranean pesto. It's also delicious as a topping for grilled fish or chicken. You could even use it as a flavour boost in scrambled eggs or omelettes. Think of it as a flavour bomb that can elevate almost any savoury dish. Delia Smith would be proud!