Olivada (Recipe)

Are you a fan of Mediterranean flavors? Look no further than olivada, a savory olive spread that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you call it olive spread or olive paste, olivada is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. With its traditional recipe and easy preparation, you can create a homemade olivada that will impress your family and friends.

Key Takeaways:

• Olivada, a traditional Mediterranean olive spread, is similar to tapenade.
• It is made using black olives, capers, and oil, with optional ingredients like garlic, herbs, and anchovies.
• Olivada can be stored in the fridge for up to a month and used as a spread, topping, or flavorful ingredient.
• The recipe can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
• Enjoy olivada on bread, toast, potatoes, pasta, and more.

What is Olivada?

Olivada is a delicious olive spread that originated in Spain and is also commonly found in the south of Italy. It is similar to tapenade, which is a French version of olive spread. Olivada and tapenade both consist of black olives, capers, and oil, with additional ingredients like garlic, herbs, and anchovies often added for flavor. While olivada has a slightly coarser texture compared to tapenade, the taste preference can vary from person to person. The key ingredients of olivada are pantry staples, making it a convenient and versatile condiment to have on hand.

While olivada and tapenade share similar ingredients, they have their own unique characteristics. Olivada’s slightly coarser texture adds a rustic appeal, while tapenade’s smooth texture provides a creamy indulgence. Both spreads can be used in a variety of dishes to enhance the flavors with their Mediterranean influence.

How to Make Olivada

Creating your own olivada at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a food processor, you can whip up a batch of this delicious Mediterranean olive spread in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy olivada recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a burst of flavor to their meals.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pitted black olives
• Fresh parsley
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Anchovy fillets (optional)
• Capers
• Garlic

Start by adding all the ingredients into a food processor. Make sure the olives are coarsely chopped, but feel free to adjust the texture to your liking. Blend everything together until well combined, creating a smooth and flavorful olivada.

Pro tip: If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly version, simply omit the anchovy fillets. The olivada will still be packed with savory goodness that everyone can enjoy.

This versatile vegan olivada can be customized to suit your taste by adding additional flavors like thyme, rosemary, or a splash of lemon juice. Get creative and make it your own!

Once your olivada is ready, transfer it into a jar or airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to one month, allowing you to enjoy the homemade goodness whenever you desire.

Try this Easy Olivada Recipe Today!

Ready to give this easy olivada recipe a try? Follow the steps above and savor the rich, Mediterranean flavors that olivada has to offer. Whether you spread it on bread, use it as a topping for pasta, or incorporate it into your favorite dishes, olivada is sure to elevate your meals with its irresistible taste.

Get inspired by the vibrant photo above and embark on a culinary adventure with olivada. With its simplicity and versatility, you’ll soon discover why this vegan olive spread has become a beloved staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

Serving Suggestions for Olivada

Olivada, with its versatile flavors, can be incorporated into various dishes to enhance their taste. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

1. Antipasto Platter:

Add a dollop of olivada to your favorite antipasto platter. Pair it with marinated eggplant, peperonata, and bruschetta with mozzarella. The combination of flavors will create a mouthwatering appetizer.

2. Pasta Topping:

Stir olivada through hot pasta for an easy and delicious meal. The savory olive flavors will infuse into the pasta, creating a flavorful dish. Add some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra kick.

3. Potato Accompaniment:

Transform simple boiled new potatoes into a delightful side dish by adding olivada. Toss the potatoes with a generous spoonful of olivada and enjoy the burst of Mediterranean flavors.

4. Rice-Stuffed Tomatoes:

Use olivada as a filling for rice-stuffed tomatoes. Scoop out the insides of ripe tomatoes, fill them with cooked rice mixed with olivada, and bake until tender. This dish makes for an impressive appetizer or a light lunch.

5. Olive Dip:

Olivada can be served as a tasty olive dip. Pair it with your favorite crunchy vegetables, such as carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips. It also goes well with crispy pita chips or toasted bread slices.

These serving suggestions are just the beginning. Let your creativity run wild and experiment with olivada in various recipes to discover new and exciting flavor combinations.

Tips for Making Olivada

Creating your own olivada is not only easy but also allows you to tailor the flavors to suit your taste preferences. Here are some handy tips to help you make the perfect olivada:

Pitting Olives

If you’re using unpitted olives for your olivada, there’s a simple trick to remove the pits. Press the olives gently with the flat side of a large knife until they flatten and split. This technique makes it easy to remove the pits without much effort.

Note: Unpitted olives generally have better flavor compared to jarred pitted olives.

Vegan-Friendly Olivada

If you follow a vegan diet or prefer a vegan-friendly olivada, you can easily modify the recipe. Simply omit the anchovy fillets and adjust the flavors accordingly. Feel free to experiment with herbs, spices, or lemon juice to create a vegan olivada that suits your taste buds.

Remember: Olivada is a versatile condiment that invites creativity in the kitchen.

Quick Recap:

1. Flatten and split unpitted olives using the flat side of a large knife to remove the pits.
2. Omit anchovy fillets to make vegan-friendly olivada.
3. Experiment with additional flavors like herbs, spices, or lemon juice to customize your olivada.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to create delicious homemade olivada that suits your dietary preferences. Enjoy the exciting process of making and experimenting with this versatile Mediterranean olive spread!

Conclusion

Are you ready to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen? Look no further than the versatile and delicious olive spread known as Olivada. With its pantry staple ingredients and easy preparation, this homemade recipe allows you to customize the texture and flavors to suit your preferences.

Whether you prefer a coarser texture or a smoother paste, Olivada can be easily adjusted by blending black olives, capers, garlic, and other optional ingredients like anchovies and herbs in a food processor. The result is a savory spread that can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month, ready to enhance any meal with its rich Mediterranean taste.

Use Olivada as a spread on bread or toast, a topping for potatoes or pasta, or get creative and incorporate it into your favorite dishes. Its burst of flavor will elevate your appetizers, add depth to your dips, and bring a unique touch to your recipes. Whether you call it Olivada, tapenade, or simply a Mediterranean olive spread, this versatile condiment will impress your guests and leave them craving for more.