A Taste of the Mediterranean for the holidays

If you're looking for an appetizer that's both wholesome and richly flavorful, then check out our newest find: les Moulins Mahjoub spreads. Cultivated and bottled in Tebourba, Tunisia, these spreads are thick in texture and intense in flavor.

Take a look at the spreads we'll have available:

• Natural Black Olive Spread-this fine paste is made by crushing pitted black olives. Ideal as antipasti (with raw tomatoes, cheese, etc.), black olive spread is also used to flavor sauces and can be served with grilled meat and fish.


• Sundried Tomato Spread- A spread consisting of sun-dried tomatoes mixed with olive oil and chilies. The texture reminds us of a chewy candy, but it definitely packs a punch!


• Harissa-Just as the basil spread pesto in Italian comes from pestare, also meaning 'to crush,' harissa (which is made from garlic and olive oil) comes from the Arabic word Ihares, which means the very same. Tebourba Harissa has a grainy consistency and a slightly smoked flavor. It's medium strength, so as to enhance the range of tastes of the pepper. We found the harissa made an excellent garlic toast when we rubbed it on thick slices of country bread.


• Artichoke-These artichokes come from the valley of the Medjerda, a historic artichoke-growing area. Ideal for starters and cold salads and as garnish for gilled fish. We were surprised by the velvety smooth texture of this spread; it was almost comforting to the mouth.

Above all else, these spreads are perfect for your holiday entertaining. Try them all with various assortments of crackers, breads, and vegetables.