Spreads and Tapenades

A tapenade is usually associated with an olive spread that originated in France, in Provence to be more exact. However, originally a tapenade was made with capers, and that’s where it gets its name – tapeno is French Provencal for caper. This Mediterranean specialty has been made for hundreds of years, but it was in 1880 that it was popularized in the cookbook of La Cuisine Provencal, based on a recipe served at La Maison Doree restaurant. Olives are one part of the tapenade, this thick, intensely flavored paste that often contains garlic and anchovies for an extra flavor boost. Tapenade is presented usually with pasta, but it was can also be served by itself with bread or crackers as an appetizer. It can also accompany roast meats for a boost of intensity. Other culinary spreads are used either to enhance other ingredients like meats or fish or are served as dips and starters like a Greek Mezze or Italian antipasto. Hummus, roasted red pepper spread, taramosalata and other super flavorful spreads pack a lot of taste and are able to really add complexity to a dish or menu, very easily. Plus, our spreads and tapenades are usually shelf stable which means you can keep them on hand for any recipe. Buy spreads and tapenades online at Gourmet Wholesaler in bulk or retail quantities, and keep your pantry stocked with premium, high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.