This Vegan Olive Tapenade is a deliciously salty and briny spread that comes together in just a few minutes. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, this tapenade serves as an excellent appetizer, sandwich topper, hummus enhancer, or even a unique pizza sauce base. If you adore olives, this recipe will surely become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This tapenade takes only 5 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it with crostini, on sandwiches, or as a flavorful addition to various dishes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of manzanilla and Kalamata olives gives the tapenade a rich, savory taste that olive lovers will adore.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from olive oil and fiber from olives, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious.
• Fresh and Homemade: Skip store-bought options filled with preservatives and make your own fresh tapenade at home.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Vegan Olive Tapenade efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes blending the ingredients easy and quick, ensuring a smooth consistency for your tapenade.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your tapenade.
• Measuring spoons: These help you add precise amounts of vinegar, mustard, and other ingredients for maximum flavor.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Olive Mixture

• 6 oz. jar manzanilla olives, drained
• 6 oz. jar pitted Kalamata olives, drained
• 1/4 cup fresh roughly chopped parsley
• 2-3 cloves garlic

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons white apple vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

How to Make Vegan Olive Tapenade

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and ensure they are ready for blending.

Step 2: Blend the Olives

1. Add all ingredients—olives, parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, mustard, oregano—into a food processor.
2. Pulse until everything is well minced and combined. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.

Step 3: Season to Taste

1. Taste your tapenade mixture and season with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper according to your preference.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer the tapenade to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.
3. Serve with crostini or sliced French baguette and enjoy!

How to Serve Vegan Olive Tapenade

Vegan olive tapenade is a versatile dish that can enhance various meals and snacks. Its rich, briny flavor pairs well with a variety of foods, making it an excellent choice for parties or casual gatherings.

With Crostini

• Toasted bread slices topped with the tapenade create a delightful bite-sized appetizer.

As a Sandwich Spread

• Use the tapenade as a flavorful spread on sandwiches or wraps for an extra zing.

On Hummus

• Swirl the tapenade into hummus for added depth and complexity in flavor.

As a Pizza Sauce Base

• Spread the tapenade on pizza dough before adding your favorite toppings for a Mediterranean twist.

With Cheese Alternatives

• Pair the tapenade with plant-based cheese alternatives for a delicious cheese board option.

How to Perfect Vegan Olive Tapenade

To ensure your vegan olive tapenade reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Choose quality olives: Opt for high-quality manzanilla and Kalamata olives for a richer taste.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your tapenade as you go, adding more salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dip to sit for at least 30 minutes after preparation lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers a more intense flavor than pre-minced options.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Olive Tapenade

Vegan olive tapenade pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing any meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Vegetable Crudités
   Fresh cut vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy dip.

2. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
   Marinated and grilled vegetables bring smoky flavors that complement the salty notes of the tapenade.

3. Pita Chips
   Crispy pita chips offer a satisfying crunch and are perfect for scooping up the tapenade.

4. Stuffed Grape Leaves
   These flavorful bites add an authentic Mediterranean flair alongside your olive tapenade.

5. Roasted Potatoes
   Seasoned roasted potatoes can serve as a hearty side that goes well with the olive spread’s richness.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad provides freshness and balances out the savory flavors of the tapenade.

7. Olive Oil Breadsticks
   Crisp breadsticks drizzled with olive oil make an ideal accompaniment for dipping into the tapenade.

8. Caprese Skewers
   Skewers of cherry tomatoes, basil, and plant-based mozzarella add a refreshing touch alongside your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Olive Tapenade is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final flavor and texture.

• Overprocessing the olives: If you pulse the mixture too much, you may end up with a paste instead of a chunky tapenade. Aim for a nice balance of texture by pulsing just until combined.
• Ignoring seasoning: Tasting your tapenade as you go is crucial. Under-seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Always add salt and pepper gradually and adjust according to your taste.
• Using old olives: Fresh ingredients are key! Check the expiration date on your olives. Using high-quality, flavorful olives makes all the difference in your tapenade.
• Neglecting garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only adds color but also enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step for an eye-catching presentation!
• Skipping the vinegar: The tang from vinegar brightens the flavors in tapenade. Be sure to include it for that extra zest and depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• • Container: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers to keep the flavors intact.

Freezing Vegan Olive Tapenade

• • Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Freeze in small portions using freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Vegan Olive Tapenade

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Olive Tapenade.

What can I serve with Vegan Olive Tapenade?

You can enjoy it with crostini, pita chips, or as a topping on sandwiches and salads. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables.

How long does Vegan Olive Tapenade last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Can I customize my Vegan Olive Tapenade?

Absolutely! Feel free to add capers, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs to create your unique flavor profile.

Is Vegan Olive Tapenade healthy?

Yes! It’s relatively low in calories and packed with healthy fats from olives. It’s a nutritious option for snacking or as part of a meal.

How can I make this tapenade spicier?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Olive Tapenade is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal, it’s sure to impress your guests. Try customizing it with different herbs or spices to suit your taste!

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Vegan Olive Tapenade

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings (240g total) 1x

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Description

Vegan Olive Tapenade is a delightful, savory spread that packs a punch of flavor in just five minutes. This versatile dish combines the briny goodness of manzanilla and Kalamata olives, fresh herbs, and aromatic garlic, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to elegant parties. Serve it as an appetizer with crostini, slather it on sandwiches, or use it as a unique sauce base for pizza. With its healthy fats and fiber-rich ingredients, this tapenade not only tastes great but is also nourishing. Skip the store-bought versions filled with preservatives and whip up this homemade delight that will surely impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 oz. jar manzanilla olives, drained
• 6 oz. jar pitted Kalamata olives, drained
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• 2–3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons white apple vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. In a food processor, combine olives, parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and oregano.
3. Pulse until well minced but not completely smooth; scrape down sides as needed.
4. Season to taste with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 30g
• Calories: 95
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Choose high-quality olives for the best flavor. Let the tapenade sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Experiment by adding sun-dried tomatoes or capers for variety.