Dorset-inspired Olive and Herb Spread

Recipe

Dorset-inspired Olive and Herb Spread

Dorset Delight: Olive and Herb Spread with a Coastal Twist

4.5 out of 5

Indulge in the flavors of Dorset with this delightful Olive and Herb Spread. Inspired by the coastal region's culinary traditions, this recipe combines the richness of olives with fragrant herbs to create a versatile and flavorful spread.

Jan Dec
Spread› Tapenade
European cuisine› Western European cuisine› French cuisine
European cuisine› Northern European cuisine› Cuisines of the [[Islands of the North Atlantic]] (IONA)› British cuisine› English cuisine› Cuisine of Dorset

Preparation time

15 minutes

Cooking time

N/A

Total time

75 minutes (including chilling time)

Yields

4 servings

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free

Allergens

N/A

Not suitable for

Paleo, Keto, Low-carb, High-protein, Low-fat

Ingredients

While the original French Tapenade is traditionally made with black olives, capers, and anchovies, this Dorset-inspired version takes a unique twist. It replaces the black olives with a combination of green and black olives, adding a brighter and more vibrant flavor profile. Additionally, the anchovies are omitted to cater to dietary preferences. The use of locally sourced herbs and ingredients gives this spread a distinct Dorset touch. We alse have the original recipe for Tapenade, so you can check it out.

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 11g, 1.5g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a food processor, combine the green olives, black olives, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, parsley, and thyme leaves.
  2. 2.
    Pulse the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier spread, pulse briefly. For a smoother spread, blend for a longer duration.
  3. 3.
    Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  4. 4.
    Transfer the Olive and Herb Spread to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. 5.
    Serve chilled with crusty bread or crackers.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Olives — Ensure that the olives are pitted before using them in the recipe to avoid any unwanted surprises while enjoying the spread.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the spread.
  • Experiment with different herb combinations such as rosemary or basil to customize the taste according to your preference.
  • If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves before mincing them.

Serving advice

Serve the Dorset-inspired Olive and Herb Spread on a platter alongside freshly baked bread, crisp crackers, and a variety of sliced vegetables. This spread also pairs well with a selection of cheeses and cured meats.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Olive and Herb Spread with a sprig of fresh thyme or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance its visual appeal. Serve it in a rustic ceramic bowl or on a wooden serving board to capture the essence of Dorset's coastal charm.

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