Green Olives

Tapenade is a staple in my house, since it does double duty served with a cheese plate or used as a spread on your favorite panini. I must admit, however, I always end up making it with black olives, so I was thrilled when I found a recipe specifically for a tasty green olive spread. Because the olive's flavor takes center stage in this milk-based dip, I recommend using your favorite green olives; I chose castelvetranos since they impart an amazingly buttery flavor and bright green color, and they aren't incredibly briny.

The result was a salty and creamy dip that was perfect served on crunchy crostini, and would also be ideal in pasta or even as a dressing for salad. Move over, olive tapenade; it's all about going green! Keep reading for this simple recipe.

There's no better time than a massive heat wave to embrace salsa. It's a no-cook appetizer that's ideal for last-minute Summer entertaining, and makes use of the cornucopia of farm-fresh seasonal ingredients at your disposal. Eschew classic tomato salsa for a Mediterranean riff that incorporates cured green olives, oregano, and hot pepper relish — a topping that would taste great not only on pita chips, but also white meat or grilled fish. But salsa doesn't have to be salty: Take it for a sweet spin by incorporating mango and kiwi with a hint of brown sugar and ginger. Try either, or both, when you read more.