Xanthan Gum Free Basil & Olive Tapenade
This vibrant spread is packed with briny Kalamata and green olives, fragrant fresh basil, and a bright hit of lemon juice and zest that makes every bite feel alive. A pinch of turmeric and fresh thyme round out the flavor in a way that's earthy and unexpected without being overpowering. The whole thing comes together in a food processor in just a few pulses, landing at that perfect coarse, spreadable texture — rustic enough to feel homemade, polished enough to set out for guests. Because every ingredient here is a whole, recognizable food, there's no need to scan labels for hidden thickeners or stabilizers that so many store-bought spreads quietly rely on. Patting the olives dry before blending is the kind of small step that makes a real difference, keeping the tapenade from turning watery and loose. Serve it slathered on crusty bread, spooned over grilled chicken, or used as a bold dip for raw vegetables — it's the kind of condiment that makes everything around it taste better.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives
- ½ cup pitted green olives
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
Instructions
- 1
Drain the Kalamata and green olives and pat them dry with a paper towel — excess brine will make the tapenade watery.
- 2
Combine the olives, basil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, and turmeric in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse 8–10 times until the mixture is roughly chopped and no large olive pieces remain.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!