Green Olive and Almond Spread

Green Olive and Almond Spread Recipe from Spain with Tarragon and Lemon Juice

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Green Olive and Almond Spread is a delicious and flavorful spread that is perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. The combination of briny green olives, toasted Marcona almonds, fresh tarragon, and lemon juice creates a unique and savory flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Mediterranean flavors, where olives and almonds are commonly used in various dishes. The addition of tarragon and lemon juice adds a fresh and bright element to the spread, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of pitted briny green olives
0.25 cup of Marcona almonds or other almonds, toasted [1]
1 tsp of fresh tarragon or 0.5 tsp of dried tarragon
1 tsp of lemon juice
1 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil

How to prepare

In a food processor, combine olives, almonds, tarragon, and lemon juice.
Pulse the mixture until it is roughly chopped.
While the processor is running, slowly add the oil until it is absorbed. Alternatively, finely chop the olives, almonds, and tarragon by hand. Then, combine them with lemon juice and oil in a medium bowl. The spread should have a coarse but easily spoonable texture.
Let the mixture stand for about 30 minutes to allow the flavor to develop.
For make-ahead preparation, cover the spread and refrigerate for up to 1 day.

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
Substitute the Marcona almonds with regular almonds or other nuts like walnuts or pistachios.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to toast the almonds before adding them to the food processor. This will enhance their flavor and give the spread a nice crunch.

- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse the mixture in the food processor for longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and tarragon to suit your taste preferences. You can also add other herbs or spices to customize the flavor of the spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Green Olive and Almond Spread on toasted bread or crackers, or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables. It also pairs well with cheese and charcuterie.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the almonds before adding them to the food processor helps to enhance their flavor and give the spread a nice crunch. Pulse the mixture in the food processor until it reaches your desired consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Marcona almonds, you can use regular almonds or other nuts like walnuts or pistachios. You can also substitute tarragon with other herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme.

Make Ahead Tips

Green Olive and Almond Spread can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. This allows the flavors to develop and intensify.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Green Olive and Almond Spread in a small bowl garnished with a sprig of fresh tarragon or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. You can also sprinkle some chopped almonds on top for added texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Green Olive and Almond Spread pairs well with a variety of foods, including cheese, charcuterie, fresh vegetables, and crusty bread. It also goes well with white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Green Olive and Almond Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Stir well before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Green Olive and Almond Spread contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Green Olive and Almond Spread contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Green Olive and Almond Spread contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Green Olive and Almond Spread contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Green olives are a good source of vitamin E, iron, and copper. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium. Tarragon is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains tree nuts (almonds) and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Green Olive and Almond Spread is a nutritious and flavorful spread that is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a tasty and satisfying snack or appetizer.

Summary

Green Olive and Almond Spread is a delicious and versatile spread that is easy to make and perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah for our weekly cooking exchange. Sarah was always full of surprises when it came to recipes, and this time was no exception. She pulled out a small notebook filled with handwritten recipes and handed me a page with the title "Green Olive and Almond Spread."

I had never heard of such a combination before, but the ingredients listed were familiar to me. Green olives, almonds, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Simple yet intriguing. Sarah explained that she had learned this recipe from her grandmother who had picked it up during her travels in Spain many years ago.

As Sarah began to gather the ingredients, I watched her with curiosity. She chopped the green olives and almonds finely, then minced the garlic and squeezed the lemon juice. The fragrance that filled the kitchen was delightful, a mix of salty olives, crunchy almonds, and zesty lemon.

Once everything was mixed together and blended with olive oil, Sarah handed me a spoonful to taste. The flavors exploded in my mouth - salty, nutty, tangy, and creamy all at once. It was a perfect balance of textures and tastes that left me craving for more.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this Green Olive and Almond Spread. Sarah graciously shared the recipe with me, and I made a mental note to add it to my collection of cherished recipes.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients and set out to make the spread for myself. As I chopped the olives and almonds, I found myself lost in memories of my own travels and culinary adventures. I remembered the time I tasted fresh olives from a market in Greece, the crunch of almonds in a Moroccan tagine, and the sharpness of garlic in a pasta dish from Italy.

As I mixed everything together and tasted the final product, I knew I had captured a bit of that magic in my own kitchen. The Green Olive and Almond Spread was a culinary masterpiece, a blend of flavors and memories that transported me to far-off lands with each bite.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times for friends and family. Each time, it is met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have shared the story of how I learned to make it from Sarah, and how it has become a beloved part of my own cooking repertoire.

As I sit here now, writing this story, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the wonderful meals I have shared with loved ones over the years. The Green Olive and Almond Spread holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a new and exciting recipe to try, I encourage you to give this one a go. Who knows, it may just become a cherished part of your own culinary journey, just as it has become a part of mine.