If you want to get in the mood for a trip to Greece, or just turn your kitchen into a Greek inspired eatery for the evening try a few of my favorite dishes inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Start off with this classic starter of hand chopped Kalamata Olive and Toasted Walnut Spread, with sweet red peppers, fresh Oregano, mint, crushed red peppers, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil.. This dish takes a little time to hand chop the ingredients, but it’s worth it as an alternative to smooth blended tapenade.

You’re gonna love it!

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Serves: 6-8 People

Recipe Ingredients:

2 Cups toasted walnuts, chopped
2 Cups Kalamata olives, chopped
1/2 Cup sweet red bell peppers, chopped
1/4 Cup fresh oregano, chopped (2 tablespoons if using dried)
1/4 Cup fresh mint
1 Teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Extra Virgin Olive Oil - enough to cover mixture lightly (approximately 1/4 cup)
Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Steps:

Toast walnuts on a cookie sheet in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Let walnuts cool.

Chop walnuts, red peppers, oregano, mint and olives finely.

Mix all ingredients in a medium bowl.

Drizzle enough olive oil to cover the mixture.

Salt and pepper to taste.

Serve with pita chips, or rustic bread slices.

Garnish with a sprig of fresh oregano.

Note: Mixture gets better the longer it rests. If you prepare mixture an hour or two in advance, keep it covered or transfer to a storage jar. If you refrigerate, bring to room temperature before serving.