WHAT’S IN IT
· 1 cup niçoise pitted olives
· 1 cup green pitted olives
· 1 T capers
· 2 anchovy fillets preserved in olive oil
· 2 T lemon juice
· 2 T roasted tomatoes (you can buy in a jar)
· 3 garlic cloves
· 1 ½ T fresh rosemary, minced
· 1 ½ T fresh thyme, minced
· 2 T extra virgin olive oil
HOW TO MAKE IT
1. Place all of the ingredients except olive oil in a food processor
2. Process until mixed and the olives are broken into small but discernible chunks
3. Slowly add the olive oil into the mix, continuing to process until the mixture forms a thick paste (or stop before then if you like a chunky tapenade)
4. Serve with crackers or toast rounds or as part of a charcuterie.
WHY IT’S HEALTHY
Rosemary is known for its ability to improve memory, promote hair growth, relieve muscle aches and pains, improve cognitive function and can strengthen digestion and improve circulation. Rosemary also possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antioxidant, and detoxifying properties. Thyme is a natural antifungal, can reduce inflammation and pain and has a compound, carvacrol which has been found to have positive effects on improving mood if consumed consistently for just 7 days. It does this by increasing levels of both serotonin and dopamine. Extra Virgin Olive oil contains oleocanthal which has properties similar to non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs. EVOO helps keep blood pressure low and prevent LDL oxidation, and has a monounsaturated fatty acid called oleic acid which is heart-healthy and helps fight free radical damage. Garlic has strong antibiotic, antifungal and antiviral properties, is high in vitamin C ad B6 as well as the minerals selenium, calcium and copper. The likelihood of blood vessel damage sue to chronic inflammation has been shown to decrease when garlic is consumed on a regular basis., and garlic is one of the most powerful foods to lower the risk of cancer. Capers are a fabulous source of quercetin which can help manage a number of inflammatory health problems, including heart disease allergies, infections, chronic fatigue, and symptoms related to autoimmune disorders. Particularly compelling these days, quercetin has been found to inhibit a wide variety of viruses. Lemons are rich in Vitamin C needed for collagen production that is essential for smooth, healthy skin. They are rich in bioflavonoids (which can significantly boost the immune system) and are a good source of B6, thiamin, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.