Croatian Olive and Fig Tapenade with Crostini
Experience a burst of Mediterranean flavors with this Croatian Olive and Fig Tapenade served atop golden, crispy crostini. This appetizer perfectly blends the savory tang of olives with the natural sweetness of figs, making it an irresistible addition to any gathering.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Food processor
- Bread knife
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted 150g / 5.3 oz
- 1/2 cup dried figs, stemmed and quartered 75g / 2.6 oz
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed 30g / 1 oz
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 6g / 0.2 oz
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 15ml
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves 2g / 0.07 oz
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil 80ml, plus extra for crostini
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices 200g / 7 oz
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will be for toasting the crostini.
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Toast the baguette slices in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp. Once done, set aside to cool.
- While the crostini are toasting, place the pitted olives, quartered figs, capers, minced garlic, lemon juice, and thyme leaves into the bowl of a food processor.
- Pulse the mixture several times until it is coarsely chopped but not pureed, ensuring to retain some texture.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and blend until the mixture becomes a cohesive paste. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the tapenade to a serving bowl.
- Serve the Croatian Olive and Fig Tapenade with the prepared crostini. The tapenade can also be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week.
Notes
If you prefer a smoother tapenade, continue to process the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency.
For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free bread instead of a baguette.