Crostini with black olive tapenade

Crostini with black olive tapenade features a blend of rich olives, capers, and garlic served on crispy baguette slices. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for entertaining or as a snack.

07 Feb 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

3 tbsp capers
26 oz olives
1 garlic clove
1/4 cup olive oil
1 baguette (french bread)
2 tbsp olive oil

Crostini with black olive tapenade is a delightful appetizer that brings together the rich flavors of olives, capers, and garlic on crispy baguette slices. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a simple snack. With a few quality ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare an elegant and flavorful treat that everyone will love.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tapenade:
1. Rinse Capers: Drain and rinse 3 tablespoons (27g) of capers under cold water to remove excess salt.
2. Prepare Olives: Drain and pit 26 oz (740g) of black olives if necessary.
3. Peel Garlic: Peel and coarsely chop 1 clove (3g) of garlic.
4. Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the capers, black olives, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture is roughly chopped.
5. Add Olive Oil: While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup (55g) of olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth paste. Stop and scrape down the sides if needed. Continue blending until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the tapenade and adjust for seasoning if necessary. Depending on the saltiness of the olives and capers, additional salt may not be needed.

2. Prepare the Crostini:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice Baguette: Cut the baguette (120g) into 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch (0.6 to 1.3 cm) thick slices on a slight diagonal to give more surface area.
3. Brush with Olive Oil: Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with the 2 tbsp (27g) of olive oil.
4. Toast Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bread is golden and crisp.

3. Assemble the Crostini:
1. Spread Tapenade: Once the crostini are cool enough to handle, spread a generous amount of the black olive tapenade on each slice.
2. Garnish (Optional): For extra flair, garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.

4. Serve: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and enjoy immediately. They are perfect as an appetizer or party snack.

Crostini with black olive tapenade is a versatile and delicious appetizer that can be easily prepared with a few pantry staples. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick and tasty snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the bold and savory flavors of the tapenade on crunchy, toasted baguette slices for a delightful culinary experience.

Crostini with black olive tapenade FAQ:

What is the best baking time and temperature for crostini?

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the crostini for 10-12 minutes. Be sure to turn them once halfway through to ensure even toasting.

How do I know when the crostini are done?

The crostini are done when they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, especially towards the end of the baking time.

Can I make the black olive tapenade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tapenade ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What type of olives work best for tapenade?

Black olives are preferred for this tapenade, but you can also mix in green olives for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are pitted before use.

What are some good substitutions for capers?

If you don't have capers, you can substitute them with green olives for a similar briny flavor, or use a little bit of lemon juice to add acidity.

Tips:

- Use a high-quality olive oil for the tapenade to enhance the overall flavor.

- You can toast the baguette slices in advance and store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.

- For added flavor, rub each toasted baguette slice with a cut garlic clove before adding the tapenade.

- Feel free to experiment with different types of olives or add fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a unique twist.

Nutrition per serving

7 Servings
Calories 170kcal
Protein 2.92g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 2.21g
Sugar 0.85g
Fat 24g

Crostini with black olive tapenade