Olive Spread With Walnuts
A savory olive spread with toasted walnuts and fresh herbs, perfect for spreading on toasted baguette slices for a flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely chop the pitted Kalamata olives and 3 tablespoons of toasted walnuts in a food processor.
- Add olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, oregano, sage, and cayenne pepper to the processor.
- Process until the mixture is coarsely pureed.
- Stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of chopped toasted walnuts.
- Serve the spread on French baguette slices brushed with olive oil and toasted until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, add a bit of cream cheese or Greek yogurt. You can substitute pitted green olives for a milder flavor. If you want extra crunch, mix in some finely chopped celery or bell peppers. Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, so don’t skip that step. This olive spread pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean recipes, making it a versatile addition to your appetizer table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this olive spread on toasted French baguette slices or alongside pita chips for a delightful appetizer. It also goes well with fresh vegetables such as cucumber and bell pepper slices. For a complete meal, pair it with a refreshing Green Gazpacho or a light salad. A glass of Summer Sangria complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover olive spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the spread thickens, simply stir in a little olive oil before serving. It can also be frozen for up to three months; just allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before use.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olive Spread With Walnuts contains roughly 221 calories, with 7g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (137% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (107% of the Daily Value), and calcium (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 30g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this olive spread ahead of time?
Yes, this olive spread can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving.
What can I use if I don't have Kalamata olives?
If you don't have Kalamata olives, you can use any other type of pitted olives, such as green olives or black olives. Just keep in mind that the flavor and color of the spread will vary slightly depending on the olives you choose.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat in this olive spread, you can add more cayenne pepper or incorporate a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. For a different kind of spice, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).