🫒 Creamy Mediterranean Olive Spread

(Green Olive Cheese Dip)

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes

🧾 INGREDIENTS

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup green olives, pitted & finely chopped

• 2 tbsp black olives, finely chopped (optional but great depth)

• 2 tbsp roasted red peppers, finely diced

• 1 tbsp capers, chopped (optional)

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice or red wine vinegar

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Salt to taste (go light—olives are salty)

• Optional garnish: whole green olives, parsley

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

1. Soften the Base
   In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add the Flavor
   Fold in chopped green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, capers, and garlic.

3. Season & Finish
   Add olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

4. Taste & Adjust
   Taste before adding salt — olives vary in saltiness.

5. Chill (Optional but Recommended)
   Refrigerate 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

6. Serve
   Spoon into a bowl, drizzle lightly with olive oil, garnish with olives or parsley. Serve with toasted bread, crostini, crackers, or veggies.

❓ Q & A

Q: Is this the same as olive tapenade?

A: No. Tapenade is olive-based and oil-puréed. This is cream cheese–based, richer and milder.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling. Keeps 4–5 days refrigerated.

Q: Can I use a food processor?

A: Yes, but pulse gently. Over-blending makes it pasty instead of textured.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?

A: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese or whipped cashew cheese.

Q: What olives work best?

A:

• Castelvetrano (mild & buttery)

• Manzanilla

• Spanish green olives

Avoid overly bitter olives unless you love strong flavors.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

A: Add:

• Red pepper flakes

• Calabrian chili paste

• Finely diced jalapeño

Q: Can this be used as a sandwich spread?

A: Absolutely — amazing on:

• Turkey or roast beef sandwiches

• Wraps

• Burgers

• Grilled chicken

Q: Keto / low-carb friendly?

A: Yes! Very low-carb and keto-friendly.