Looking for a bold, Mediterranean spread with real Spanish soul? This Spanish Olive Tapenade combines the briny richness of olives with the nutty crunch of Deliart Marcona almonds and the unmistakable smoky flavor of Deliart Idiazabal cheese, one of Spain’s most iconic cheeses.
It’s quick, delicious, and the perfect addition to your tapas table, cheese board, or even your weekday lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of pitted olives (green or black, drained)
- 50 g Deliart Marcona Almonds
- 1 garlic clove
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh basil leaves (a handful)
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 50 g Deliart Idiazabal cheese, grated or crumbled
Instructions:
- Add the olives, Marcona almonds, garlic, lemon juice, basil, and Idiazabal cheese to a food processor.
- Pulse several times until the ingredients start to combine.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending, until you reach your preferred texture.
- Taste and adjust if needed — the cheese and almonds already provide saltiness.
- Store in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to 5 days.
About Deliart Idiazabal cheese
Idiazabal cheese is a traditional, PDO-protected cheese from the Basque Country and Navarra, made from unpasteurized sheep’s milk. It has a firm texture and a deep, smoky, nutty flavor that sets it apart from other Spanish cheeses.
We recommend using the Deliart brand Idiazabal, known for its authentic, artisan-quality wheels. Deliart offers both smoked and unsmoked versions — either works beautifully in this tapenade, depending on how bold you want the flavor. It grates easily, melts beautifully, and adds complexity to spreads, sauces, and cheese boards.
How to Serve This Spanish Olive Tapenade:
- Spread over toasted rustic bread or crackers
- Serve with grilled vegetables or on a tapas platter
- Add to cheese and charcuterie boards
- Mix into pasta, rice bowls, or sandwiches
- Pair with Rioja wine, cider, or vermouth
Health Benefits:
- Idiazabal cheese is rich in calcium, protein, and healthy fats
- Marcona almonds offer vitamin E and antioxidants
- Olives & olive oil support heart health and digestion
- Naturally gluten-free and full of good fats
Tips & Variations:
- Want something milder? Try cured goat cheese or manchego instead of Idiazabal.
- Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for depth.
- For a vegan version, swap cheese for a spoonful of tahini or white miso.
