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Black and Green Olive Tapenade

This vibrant black and green olive tapenade is a sophisticated addition to any mezze platter or starter course. Combining the punchy flavours of Niçoise and Picholine olives with sun-dried tomatoes and salty capers, this chunky spread offers a true taste of the Mediterranean. The addition of fresh basil, thyme, and oregano provides a fragrant, herbaceous lift that balances the richness of the extra-virgin olive oil.

As a heart-healthy choice, this homemade condiment is packed with monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It is incredibly versatile and can be stirred through hot pasta, dolloped onto grilled fish, or simply enjoyed with crusty bread and vegetable crudités. Quick to prepare and naturally gluten-free, it is an essential recipe for effortless entertaining or nutritious snacking.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Black and Green Olive Tapenade

  • 240ml Niçoise olives, pitted

  • 240ml small green French olives (Picholine), pitted

  • 60ml Oven-Dried Tomatoes , drained

  • 1 tablespoon capers

  • 1 garlic clove

  • 1 anchovy fillet

  • 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

  • 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves

  • 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

  • 1/4 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano leaves

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

How to make Black and Green Olive Tapenade

In a food processor, combine all the ingredients except the olive oil. Using the pulse button, process until coarsely chopped and well blended. Continue to process, slowly adding the olive oil. Refrigerate in a covered container. Use as needed.

Tapenade will keep up to 1 week, refrigerated, in a covered container.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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