Moroccan Olives & Preserved Lemon Tapenade

Vibrant array of spices and condiments on display in Essaouira market, Morocco.

🧡 Story

This Moroccan Olives & Preserved Lemon Tapenade is a delicious dip with lots of North African flavor.
A Moroccan staple on tables, it combines green or black olives, pickled lemons, garlic, and olive oil for a pungent, tangy spread.
Perfect as an appetizer with crusty bread, on grilled meats, or as a special sandwich spread

  • Ingredients :
  • 1 cup mixed Moroccan olives (green and/or black, pitted)
  • ½ preserved lemon (rind only, finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
  • 👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
  • Remove pits from olives and roughly chop the preserved lemon rind.
  • Place all ingredients in a food processor.
  • Pulse while slowly adding olive oil until you reach a coarse paste.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with pepper or lemon juice.
  • Serve with Moroccan bread, crackers, or as a condiment.
  • 🌿 Serving Ideas
  • As a dip with warm khobz (Moroccan bread) or pita.
  • Spread over grilled chicken or fish.
  • Add a spoonful to salads or roasted vegetables.

🍋Cultural Note

In Moroccan homes, olives and preserved lemons are ever-present at the dining table — symbols of flavor and welcome.
This tapenade highlights Morocco’s love for simple ingredients transformed into unforgettable tastes.

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