Paraben Free Classic Olive Tapenade
Rich, briny, and deeply savory, this Mediterranean spread comes together in minutes with just a food processor and a handful of bold ingredients. Kalamata olives, capers, anchovy fillets, and fresh thyme create a layered depth of flavor that tastes like it took far more effort than it actually did. A hit of fresh lemon juice and zest keeps everything bright, while a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil pulls the whole paste into a luscious, coarse spread with real texture. For anyone navigating paraben sensitivities, store-bought condiments and spreads can be a minefield — preservatives sneak into jarred products in ways that aren't always obvious on the label. Making this at home means every single ingredient is visible and intentional, with nothing hidden in the mix. The recipe relies entirely on whole, minimally processed foods: fresh herbs, real citrus, and quality olive oil with no synthetic additives in sight. Serve it slathered on crusty bread, spooned alongside roasted vegetables, or used as a punchy base for a cheese board. It refrigerates beautifully, so a batch made ahead is always ready to elevate a quick meal or impress last-minute guests.
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 ½ cups pitted kalamata or niçoise olives
- 2 tbsp capers, drained
- 4 oil-packed anchovy fillets
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the olives, capers, anchovy fillets, garlic, thyme, lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper in the bowl of a food processor.
- 2
Pulse 8–10 times until the mixture is roughly chopped and no large olive pieces remain, scraping down the sides of the bowl once halfway through.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!