Red Pepper Tapenade: A Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Spread

Red Pepper Tapenade is a vibrant and savory Mediterranean spread made with roasted red peppers, garlic, almonds, and herbs. It’s perfect for serving as an appetizer at parties, spread on sandwiches, or paired with your favorite crackers. The smoky sweetness of the roasted red peppers complements the richness of the almonds, making it a crowd-pleasing addition to any table.

For more ideas on Mediterranean spreads and appetizers, check out Mediterranean Dish: Best Tapenade Recipes or explore a variety of spreads and dips at Bon Appétit’s Appetizer Collection.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Red Pepper Tapenade Recipe | A Savory Mediterranean Spread for Any Occasion

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Red Pepper Tapenade is a flavorful and vibrant Mediterranean spread made with roasted sweet red peppers, garlic, and blanched almonds. This savory spread, rich in texture and taste, is perfect as a dip for crackers or a topping for toasted French bread. It’s a great appetizer for gatherings and a wonderful addition to any Mediterranean-inspired meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 cups roasted sweet red peppers, drained
• 1/2 cup blanched almonds
• 1/3 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• Minced fresh basil (for garnish)
• Toasted French bread baguette slices or water crackers (for serving)

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Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

• Peel the garlic cloves and set aside.
• If using jarred roasted red peppers, drain them well to remove excess liquid.

Blend the Tapenade:

• In a food processor or blender, combine the garlic cloves, roasted red peppers, blanched almonds, and tomato paste.
• Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still has some texture. You can blend it to your desired consistency, from chunky to smooth.

Add Olive Oil and Season:

• With the food processor running, gradually add the olive oil and continue processing until the mixture becomes a smooth paste.
• Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.

Serve:

• Transfer the tapenade to a serving bowl. Garnish with minced fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve with toasted French bread baguette slices or water crackers for dipping.

Notes

• Make-Ahead: Tapenade can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop further over time.
• Customization: For added richness, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like pine nuts or walnuts. For a tangier kick, add a little lemon juice or balsamic vinegar.
• Serving Suggestions: Red Pepper Tapenade works wonderfully as a spread on sandwiches, grilled meats, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Dip
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons per serving
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Red Pepper Tapenade Recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Begin by peeling the garlic cloves. If you’re using store-bought roasted red peppers, make sure they are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the tapenade.
• Measure out the almonds, and if they’re not already blanched, you can blanch them by boiling them briefly in water and removing the skins. You’ll need 1/2 cup of blanched almonds.

2. Blend the Tapenade:

• In a food processor or blender, combine the garlic cloves, roasted red peppers, blanched almonds, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Pulse or blend until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. Some prefer a chunky tapenade, while others like it smoother. Adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil for a creamier texture.

3. Taste and Adjust:

• After blending, taste the tapenade and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add a dash of lemon juice or a small spoonful of capers.

4. Serve:

• Transfer the tapenade to a serving bowl. If desired, garnish with minced fresh basil for a burst of color and added flavor.
• Serve with toasted French bread baguette slices, water crackers, or even as a topping for grilled meats, vegetables, or sandwiches.

Advanced Techniques for Red Pepper Tapenade

While the basic recipe is simple and quick, there are a few ways to take your Red Pepper Tapenade to the next level:

1. Roasting Your Own Peppers:

• For an even fresher and richer flavor, consider roasting your own red peppers. This process intensifies their flavor and adds a subtle smokiness to the tapenade. Simply roast red peppers over an open flame or in the oven until the skins blacken, then peel them and discard the seeds.

2. Adding Extra Herbs:

• While basil is a lovely garnish, you can also incorporate other fresh herbs directly into the tapenade. Try adding a touch of thyme, oregano, or rosemary to enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile.

3. Experimenting with Nuts:

• Blanched almonds are a traditional choice for tapenade, but you can also experiment with different nuts. Pine nuts, walnuts, or even cashews can add a unique twist to the flavor and texture of your tapenade.

4. Adjusting Texture:

• For a smoother tapenade, add a little more olive oil or a tablespoon of water. If you prefer a chunkier tapenade, pulse the mixture less and leave some larger bits of pepper and almond for texture.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Once made, Red Pepper Tapenade can be stored for later use. Proper storage ensures that it remains fresh and flavorful for a longer period.

1. How to Store Red Pepper Tapenade:

• Store your tapenade in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help preserve its freshness and flavors.

2. Shelf Life:

• When stored properly, tapenade can last for about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to check the tapenade for any signs of spoilage, such as discoloration or an off smell.

3. Can You Freeze Red Pepper Tapenade?

• Freezing tapenade is an option, although it may slightly alter the texture. To freeze, place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before serving. You may need to stir in a little extra olive oil to restore the consistency after thawing.

4. Serving Tip:

• Before serving, bring your tapenade to room temperature to enhance its flavor. Cold tapenade can sometimes be too firm, so letting it warm up will make it smoother and easier to spread.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Red Pepper Tapenade is already a flexible dish that can be easily adjusted to suit different dietary needs.

1. Vegan and Dairy-Free:

• This recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free, as it contains no animal products. It’s perfect for serving at gatherings with guests who follow a plant-based diet.

2. Nut-Free Version:

• If you or your guests have a nut allergy, you can make a nut-free version of the tapenade by omitting the almonds and replacing them with sunflower seeds, or simply making it a smooth, pepper-based tapenade.

3. Low-Sodium:

• To make a low-sodium version, opt for unsalted roasted red peppers, and use less salt in the recipe. You can also replace the salt with a salt-free herb blend for added flavor without the sodium.

4. Gluten-Free:

• Red Pepper Tapenade is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for guests with gluten sensitivities. Serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks for a delicious and safe option.

FAQs About Red Pepper Tapenade

1. Can I make this tapenade ahead of time?

• Yes! Red Pepper Tapenade is a great make-ahead dish. Prepare it a day or two before your event to allow the flavors to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

2. What can I serve with Red Pepper Tapenade?

• Red Pepper Tapenade pairs wonderfully with toasted French bread slices, water crackers, or pita chips. It’s also fantastic served as a topping for grilled meats, vegetables, or on a charcuterie board.

3. Can I make this tapenade without a food processor?

• While a food processor makes the job easier, you can also chop all the ingredients finely by hand and mix them together. It will take a little more time, but you’ll still get a delicious result!

4. How can I adjust the spiciness of the tapenade?

• If you prefer a spicier tapenade, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chili pepper when blending the ingredients. Conversely, if you want a milder version, simply leave out any spicy additions.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Red Pepper Tapenade is a versatile, flavorful spread that can enhance any meal or be enjoyed on its own as an appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a Mediterranean feast, or just looking for something simple and delicious to snack on, this tapenade fits the bill perfectly. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and potential for customization, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire.

Give this recipe a try, and impress your guests with this tasty, Mediterranean-inspired spread!