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Tasty Cranberry Tapenade

Cranberry tapenade is a delicious and versatile condiment made from cranberries, garlic, olives, capers, and olive oil. The name "tapenade" comes from the Provençal region of France, where this type of spread originated. It's a flavorful combination of ingredients that can be used as an appetizer or side dish on its own, or paired with crackers, bread, or cheese for a tasty snack.

A Flavorful Twist on Traditional Tapenade

Cranberry tapenade is a creative spin on the classic Provençal spread made from olives. The tartness of the cranberries adds a unique dimension to the traditional tapenade flavor profile, making it perfect for those looking for something new and exciting. This recipe uses fresh or frozen cranberries, which can be easily incorporated into your pantry staples during the winter months when they're at their peak availability.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup of pitted and chopped green olives
  • 2 tablespoons of capers, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
  2. In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, olives, capers, and cranberries.
  3. Blend until the mixture reaches your desired consistency, whether it's chunky or smooth.
  4. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
  5. Continue blending until the tapenade reaches a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crackers, crostini, or toast points for a quick and easy snack
  • Use as a dip for vegetables like carrots, celery, or cucumber slices
  • Spread on a sandwich or wrap for added flavor
  • Enjoy as an appetizer alongside cheese, charcuterie, and fruit platter

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your cranberry tapenade fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to 2 weeks when kept chilled. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months and thaw when needed.

Enjoy your homemade cranberry tapenade!