Delicious Tomato Salad with Olive Tapenade served in a bowl

Tomato Salad with Olive Tapenade

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Tomato Salad with Olive Tapenade is a fresh and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This salad combines juicy tomatoes and a rich, briny tapenade made from olives and capers. It’s not only healthy but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy days. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a side dish, it brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your table.

How to Make Tomato Salad with Olive Tapenade

Ingredients:

  • 5 tomatoes (medium sized, sliced into 1cm/ 0.2" thick rounds)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup flat leaf parsley leaves (left whole or roughly torn)
  • Extra olive oil (for drizzling)
  • 1 cup kalamata or other black deli olives (preferably unpitted)
  • 2 tsp capers (drained or rinsed, if packed in salt, chopped)
  • 1 garlic clove (medium, minced)
  • 1 large or 2 small anchovy fillets (minced)
  • 1/4 tsp red or white wine vinegar
  • 4 – 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (use your best stuff!)

Directions:

  1. Season Tomatoes: Place sliced tomatoes into a bowl. Sprinkle over the salt and toss well but gently. Leave to sit for 15 minutes, then drain off any liquid the tomatoes have dropped.

  2. Make the Tapenade: In a mixing bowl, combine the olives, capers, garlic, anchovies, vinegar, and olive oil. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

  3. Assemble: Spread the tomatoes evenly on a serving plate. Spoon the olive tapenade over the tomatoes. Garnish with flat leaf parsley and drizzle with extra olive oil.

How to Serve Tomato Salad with Olive Tapenade

Serve the Tomato Salad with Olive Tapenade as a refreshing starter or as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. The rich flavors of the tapenade balance perfectly with the fresh tomatoes, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

How to Store Tomato Salad with Olive Tapenade

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat it within a day to enjoy the freshness of the tomatoes. The tapenade can be stored separately as well, and it may taste even better the next day!

Tips to Make Tomato Salad with Olive Tapenade

  • Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Experiment with different types of olives to find your favorite taste.
  • For added crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds on top.

Variation

You can add ingredients like feta cheese or diced cucumbers to give the salad more texture and flavor. If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can leave them out without compromising the overall taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make the olive tapenade ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tapenade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just mix it well again before serving.

2. What should I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs nicely with grilled fish, chicken, or even pasta dishes for a Mediterranean feast.

3. Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes can also work well in this salad. Just adjust the slicing size accordingly.