Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup Kitron liqueur
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor or blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine the olives, capers, garlic, parsley, basil, and lemon juice. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
2. With the motor running, slowly pour in the olive oil and Kitron liqueur until the mixture is smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the tapenade to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 1 hour
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 1/2 cups of tapenade
- Serves 6-8 as an appetizer
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Green olives can be used instead of Kalamata olives
- Red wine vinegar can be used instead of Kitron liqueur
Variations:
- Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor
- Add chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts for texture
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the capers well before using them in the recipe
- Taste the tapenade before adding salt as the olives and capers can be quite salty on their own
- Serve with toasted bread or crackers for dipping
Storage instructions:
- Store the tapenade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
Reheating instructions:
- This tapenade is best served chilled and does not need to be reheated
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the tapenade in a small bowl with a spoon for easy serving
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or basil
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil
- Lemon zest
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Crostini
- Crudites
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the tapenade is too thick, add more olive oil to thin it out
- If the tapenade is too salty, add more lemon juice to balance the flavors
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the tapenade
- Store the tapenade in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after 1 week
Food history:
- Kitron liqueur is a traditional Greek liqueur made from the leaves of the citron tree
Flavor profiles:
- Salty, tangy, and slightly sweet
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer with toasted bread or crackers
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