This olive tapenade is perfect as a dip for veggies, crackers, and pita bread or spread onto a turkey sandwich for a bright pop of flavor that will take the boring out of any bite. It’s a guest-friendly recipe - naturally vegan and gluten-free - for anyone to enjoy.
¼cup high-quality olive oilsuch as Orange Fused Olive Oil from A Bit of Taste – Snohomish Olive Oil Company
¼cupcapers
2clovesgarlic
⅛cupfresh orange juice
2teaspoonsorange zest
½teaspoonred chili pepper flakesoptional
Instructions
Add the olives, capers, and garlic cloves to the bowl of a food processor or blender. Pulse until roughly chopped into a coarse mixture.
Wash and dry the orange. Using a zester or microplane, remove only the outermost orange layer of the peel until you have about 2 teaspoons of zest.
Add the olive oil, orange juice, orange zest, and red chili pepper flakes (if using) to the food processor. Pulse a few more times, just until the mixture is well incorporated but still slightly textured.
Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve at room temperature alongside your favorite crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
For step 1 - If you do not have a food processor or high powered blender, use a sharp chef’s knife to roughly chop all of the ingredients until you get an even consistency. It will take more time this way, but you’ll still get delicious results!
It’s normal for the oil to separate slightly from the olive mixture. Stir before serving to re-incorporate.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy!