Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich

This Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Combining the rich tastes of roasted red peppers, briny olive tapenade, and creamy whipped honey goat cheese on soft focaccia, this slab sandwich is not only gourmet but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, planning a gathering, or simply want a satisfying lunch, this recipe stands out for its unique combination and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The mix of olive tapenade and goat cheese creates a rich and tangy flavor profile that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this sandwich quickly, making it ideal for busy days.
• Perfect for Sharing: This slab sandwich is designed to be cut into portions, making it great for gatherings or picnics.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with different greens or additional toppings based on your preferences.
• Gourmet Presentation: Impress your guests with a sandwich that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich successfully, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Serrated knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Ensures smooth blending of the goat cheese and honey for perfect spreadability.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting peppers without mess.
• Serrated knife: Allows for clean slicing of the focaccia without squishing the bread.

Ingredients

This Slab Sandwich combines roasted red peppers, briny olive tapenade, and creamy whipped honey goat cheese on fresh focaccia for a gourmet-style meal. Perfect for sharing, this easy sandwich recipe is ideal for picnics, gatherings, or a satisfying lunch!

For the Sandwich

• 1 large focaccia loaf
• 1 cup olive tapenade
• 1 cup goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2-4 tablespoons milk (as needed)
• 3 large roasted red peppers
• 1 cup mixed greens or arugula

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425ºF. This temperature is essential for roasting the peppers properly.

Step 2: Roast the Peppers

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
• Place the peppers cut-side down on the baking sheet.
• Roast them for 30-40 minutes until the skin is blistered and charred.

Step 3: Steam and Peel Peppers

Once roasted:
1. Transfer peppers to a bowl.
2. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap.
3. Let them sit for 20 minutes to 4 hours to steam.
4. Once cooled, peel off and discard the skins.

Step 4: Prepare Whipped Goat Cheese

In a food processor:
1. Blend together goat cheese, honey, and milk until smooth.
2. Add more milk as needed to reach your desired creamy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Slice focaccia in half horizontally using a serrated knife.
2. Spread olive tapenade generously on the bottom half of the bread.
3. Spread whipped goat cheese evenly on the top half.
4. Layer with roasted red peppers followed by mixed greens or arugula.

Step 6: Finish Up

Close the sandwich and slice into portions before serving. Enjoy your Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich!

How to Serve Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich

Serving the Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich can enhance its gourmet appeal. Here are some creative ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Picnic Style

• Perfect for sharing, cut the sandwich into smaller portions and pack them in a basket with napkins and drinks.

Platter Arrangement

• Arrange slices of the sandwich on a large platter surrounded by olives and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the sandwich.

Toasted Variation

• Grill the assembled sandwich on a panini press for a warm, crispy version that melts the goat cheese beautifully.

With Dips

• Pair with hummus or tzatziki for dipping, adding extra Mediterranean flair to your meal.

How to Perfect Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich

To ensure your Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh focaccia and high-quality olives. Freshness elevates the taste significantly.

• Adjust Goat Cheese Texture: If you prefer a thicker spread, use less milk. For a creamier texture, add more milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.

• Customize Olive Tapenade: Feel free to mix different types of olives, such as Kalamata or green olives, to create your unique flavor profile.

• Let Peppers Cool Properly: Allowing roasted peppers to steam will help loosen their skins, making them easier to peel and enhancing their sweetness.

• Experiment with Greens: Try different leafy greens like spinach or basil instead of arugula for varied flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this gourmet sandwich.

1. Chips: Crispy potato or vegetable chips add a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft sandwich.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits can provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the sandwich.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers offer a healthy and colorful side.

4. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar can bring additional Mediterranean flavors to your meal.

5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These tasty morsels add an authentic Mediterranean touch that pairs well with your sandwich.

6. Olive Oil Dip: Serve warm bread with a dip made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for an extra flavorful side option.

7. Pickles: Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the goat cheese and add an exciting flavor dimension.

8. Gazpacho: A chilled gazpacho soup complements the sandwich perfectly while keeping things light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich, small errors can affect the taste and presentation. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality olives or goat cheese can ruin the flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Overcooking the peppers: If roasted too long, peppers can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove them once the skin is blistered.
• Not spreading evenly: Uneven spreads of olive tapenade or goat cheese can lead to a sandwich that lacks flavor balance. Take your time to spread each layer evenly.
• Skipping the chilling time: Letting roasted peppers sit covered is essential for easy peeling. Don’t rush this step; it enhances texture and flavor.
• Using stale bread: A fresh focaccia makes all the difference in texture. Always use bread that’s soft and not past its prime for your sandwich.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent sogginess, store components separately if possible.

Freezing Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Wrap the sandwich in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet, press down slightly, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich?

An Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich features layers of briny olive tapenade complemented by creamy goat cheese, often served on fresh focaccia.

Can I customize my Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, avocado, or different greens to make this sandwich truly your own.

How do I make homemade olive tapenade?

To create homemade olive tapenade, simply blend pitted olives with garlic, capers, olive oil, and lemon juice until you achieve a chunky paste.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! The Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich is entirely vegetarian-friendly, making it perfect for those who avoid meat.

Final Thoughts

The Olive Tapenade & Goat Cheese Sandwich is an exquisite blend of flavors that brings gourmet dining into your home. Ideal for picnics or casual lunches, this recipe allows for plenty of customization. Try adding your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours!