Health Corner

Olives are perhaps most used for their oil, and everyone seems to know about the health benefits of that. This fruit (yes, it’s a fruit!) is mentioned multiple times in the Quran and in various hadith. Not just meant for consumption, but also anointing ourselves with it. As with so many other examples, anything encouraged by Islam is proven to have tremendous scientific and health benefits. It is no wonder one of the healthiest diets across cultures and cuisines is the Mediterranean one, in which olives and their oil is heavily used. This tiny morsel is densely packed with good fat, antioxidants, fiber for digestion and normal sugar levels, and so many nutrients and vitamins for dozens of other benefits. Add it to your salad as a whole fruit or drizzle its oil, use it for your cooking base, flavor your meals with its tart taste, or lather it on your skin and hair for excellent moisturizing! Being rewarded for loving something because our Prophet PBUH loved it, and then getting our own benefits from the fruit from a blessed tree is a win-win for all.

Cook’s Corner

OLIVE TAPENADE

Ingredients

• 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 1 cup pitted Castelvetrano olives (or any green olives)
• 3 anchovy fillets (optional)
• 1 garlic clove, peeled
• 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or other herbs like parsley or oregano)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Black pepper to taste
• Lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are ready. Rinse the capers to remove excess salt and drain the anchovies if using.
2. Combine in Food Processor: In the bowl of a food processor, add the Kalamata olives, Castelvetrano olives, anchovies (if using), garlic, capers, thyme, and lemon juice.
3. Pulse the Mixture: Pulse the mixture a few times until the ingredients are finely chopped but not pureed. You want to retain some texture.
4. Add Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture loosens up a bit. Pulse a few more times to combine.
5. Season: Taste the tapenade and add black pepper to your liking. Adjust the flavors by adding more lemon juice or herbs if desired.
6. Serve: Transfer the tapenade to a serving bowl and garnish with lemon zest if using. Serve with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches.