Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Savory Tapenade

Tapenade


 
When I am looking for a great recipe, I go to one of my "go to chefs" for inspiration.  In this case I sought out Alton Brown for guidance on how to make a great tapenade.  Tapenade has a salty slightly bitter flavor profile.  The anchovies in tapenade have Umami, considered a flavor enhancer that adds a pleasant savory taste.  Tapenade compliments Salmon, Chicken, and is great as a dip or slathered on pita or crostini.  It is also yummy as a sandwich spread.  I like the flavor of tapenade with seared Salmon.  A little tapenade can really dress things up and it only takes 5 minutes to whip the whole thing up.  I admit the photo's don't due this justice, don't let the photo stop you from making this. 

Tapenade

Ingredients:
  • 1/2 pound pitted mixed olives
  • 2 anchovy fillets, rinsed
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 2 to 3 fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Directions:
  • I got a variety of olives from the antipasti bar at Whole Foods. I used Mediterranean large green olives, kalamata olives and a bit of the dry cured.  Any combinations is good. 
  • Rinse the olives in water
  • Place all ingredients in the food processor
  • Process to combine, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl, until the mixture becomes a coarse paste, approximately 1 to 2 minutes total
  • Transfer to a bowl and serve

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