Tapenade with Green Olives and Walnuts

FOR GRILLED DISHES

Tapenade with Green Olives and Walnuts is a delightful and savory condiment that brings together the bold flavors of briny green olives and earthy walnuts. This Mediterranean-inspired spread offers a rich and textured experience that perfectly complements various dishes. The combination of toasted walnuts, pitted olives, and other flavorful ingredients creates a versatile mixture that can elevate the taste of your meals.

The toasting of walnuts imparts a deep, nutty aroma to the tapenade, enhancing its overall complexity. Mixed with softened butter, a touch of Armagnac or brandy, Dijon mustard, and anchovies, the flavors become harmoniously balanced with a hint of umami from the anchovies. The olive oil not only brings a luscious texture to the tapenade but also acts as a binder, creating a cohesive and spreadable consistency.

The tapenade’s versatility is truly remarkable. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it a fantastic companion to grilled meats, where the savory and slightly tangy notes provide a contrast that amplifies the overall dining experience. However, its applications extend beyond just meat dishes. Enjoy it as a dip with crusty bread or crackers, or incorporate it into charcuterie boards for an appetizing burst of flavor.

Creating tapenade with green olives and walnuts is not only about taste but also about texture. The coarse puree with visible walnut pieces offers a satisfying crunch that beautifully contrasts with the creaminess from the butter and olive oil. The addition of Armagnac or brandy brings a hint of sophistication, while the anchovies deepen the flavor profile. Whether served at a casual gathering or an elegant dinner, this tapenade is a versatile and flavorful condiment that will surely leave a lasting impression.

MAKES: ABOUT 2 CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 scant cup walnut pieces
• 1 cup pitted briny green olives
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 to 2 teaspoons Armagnac or brandy
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 or 2 anchovy fillets
• 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Toast Walnuts: Toast the walnut pieces in a small, heavy skillet over medium-low heat just until fragrant.
2. Prepare Mixture: Transfer the toasted walnuts into a food processor. Add the pitted olives, softened butter, Armagnac or brandy, Dijon mustard, and anchovy fillets.
3. Pulse to Combine: Pulse the ingredients in the food processor several times. The goal is to chop and combine them into a roughly textured mixture.
4. Add Olive Oil: While the food processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil in a steady stream. Use just enough oil to bind the tapenade into a glistening and coarse puree.
5. Scrape and Rest: Scrape the tapenade from the food processor into a small bowl. Allow it to sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
6. Serve: After the resting period, serve the tapenade as a condiment alongside grilled meat or other dishes. The tapenade can be refrigerated in a covered container for longer storage, but remember to bring it to room temperature before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Crostinis or Crackers: Spread the tapenade generously on toasted baguette slices or crackers for an easy and elegant appetizer. The crunch of the bread or crackers pairs perfectly with the texture of the tapenade.
• Charcuterie Board: Incorporate the tapenade as one of the elements on a charcuterie or cheese board. It complements cured meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, and other accompaniments, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of sophistication.
• Grilled Meats: Serve the tapenade alongside grilled meats, such as lamb, chicken, or pork. Its savory and slightly tangy profile enhances the flavors of the meat and adds a contrasting texture.
• Pasta Dishes: Toss the tapenade with cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a quick and flavorful pasta dish. The combination of olives, walnuts, and herbs creates a robust and satisfying sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Use the tapenade as a topping for roasted vegetables, like eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers. It adds a punch of flavor and turns simple vegetables into a gourmet side dish.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread the tapenade on sandwiches or wraps for an extra layer of flavor. It works particularly well with grilled chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options.
• Salads: Drizzle the tapenade over green salads or grain salads to infuse them with its rich flavors. It can serve as a unique dressing alternative that elevates your salad game.