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Sardine Tapenade

A quick, impressive appetizer, this Sardine Tapenade combines briny sardines with olives, capers, and lemon for a delicious spread that requires no cooking.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: French, Mediterranean
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 can 1 can sardines (4.4 ounces), drained Oil-packed sardines give a richer texture.
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 2 cloves 2 garlic cloves, minced Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Splurge on good quality olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Can substitute with fresh basil for variation.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Drain the sardines thoroughly and place them into a medium mixing bowl. Mash them gently with a fork for a rustic, slightly chunky texture.
  2. Finely chop the Kalamata olives and capers, and add them to the bowl with the mashed sardines. Stir gently.
  3. Add the minced garlic and fold it into the mixture gently.
  4. Drizzle in the olive oil and fresh lemon juice, then sprinkle in the cracked black pepper and chopped parsley. Fold together gently until well combined.
  5. Let the tapenade sit at room temperature for about ten minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Give the mixture a final gentle stir before transferring to a serving bowl and enjoy with crusty bread, crackers, or vegetables.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors improve overnight as they meld.