Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip

This creamy feta and green olive spread has been my goto for gatherings where I want something a little different to wow olive fans. Intensely tangy and savory it blends briny olives zingy lemon mellow cream cheese and smoky red pepper into a luscious dip or sandwich spread. It is just the right snackable balance of rich and bright.

I first made this for my book club everyone raved about the irresistible salty tang It has since become a staple at family picnics and movie nights

Ingredients

• Green olives: look for Castelvetrano or Manzanilla for a sweet buttery bite
• Feta cheese: crumbly and tangy it creates the creamy base try sheep milk feta for best flavor
• Cream cheese: brings extra richness and a silky texture use full fat for the best mouthfeel
• Extra virgin olive oil: adds fruitiness and binds the spread use fresh cold pressed if possible
• Garlic: just one clove gives gentle heat and depth
• Lemon zest and juice: brightens and wakes up the flavors always use unwaxed fresh lemons
• Roasted red pepper: for smoky sweetness buy jarred for convenience or roast your own
• Dried oregano: adds classic Mediterranean aroma quality dried herbs make a big difference
• Chili flakes: give a gentle hum of heat adjust to your taste
• Fresh ground black pepper: for subtle warmth grind just before adding
• Whole green olives and extra olive oil: for a showy finish

Instructions

Combine Main Ingredients:

In a food processor combine the pitted green olives feta cream cheese extra virgin olive oil minced garlic lemon zest and lemon juice Start by pulsing in short bursts then blend until you reach a smooth but slightly textured consistency This creates a base that is creamy yet lets the olive flavor shine

Fold in Flavorful Add Ins:

Add the chopped roasted red pepper dried oregano chili flakes and a good grind of black pepper to the mixture Pulse the processor just two or three times The goal is to keep some pieces visible so you get layers of taste in each scoop

Transfer and Add Toppings:

Spoon the finished dip into a serving bowl or glass jar Smooth the top with a spoon and drizzle over more olive oil Place a couple of whole olives in the center for visual appeal

Let It Chill:

Cover and chill the dip for at least thirty minutes in the refrigerator This brief rest time helps the flavors meld and intensifies the overall taste

Serve and Enjoy:

When ready to serve pair with pita chips sliced baguette crostini or raw veggie dippers like carrots cucumber and bell peppers

I crave the bright hit of lemon zest here and am geeky about always using fresh lemon for this dip A family brunch once ended with everyone fighting for the last swipe in the bowl Olive lovers completely understand

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to five days For best texture stir before serving especially if oil separates

Ingredient Substitutions

No feta on hand try goat cheese for a different creamy tang Vegan cream cheeses and feta style crumbles work well in this recipe For milder flavor swap green olives for half green and half black

Serving Suggestions

Serve this spread with crunchy raw veggies classic pita chips or as a bagel schmear It is also great on grilled sandwiches or as a creamy bowl topper for grain salads

Cultural Inspiration

This dip is inspired by the Mediterranean love for salty olives and robust cheese Dips like this bring people together on long summer evenings with plenty of bread and laughter

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring add fresh dill or mint for herby freshness In summer top with diced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch During colder months swirl into warm pasta or spread on toasted bread

Success Stories

Friends always request the recipe after tasting it Many have made it for holiday gatherings or as part of appetizer boards It consistently disappears no matter the season

Freezer Meal Conversion

Although best fresh this spread can be frozen for up to one month Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before use Expect a slightly softer texture than freshly made

This spread adds a zippy flair to any party or lunchbox. For olive lovers it quickly becomes a new favorite appetizer or snack.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of olives works best for this dip?

Castelvetrano or Manzanilla olives provide the most vibrant flavor and pleasant texture, but any mild, pitted green olive will work well.

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?

Yes, goat cheese is a great alternative and will yield a similarly creamy and tangy finish.

→ How long should the dip chill before serving?

Allow the dip to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall taste.

→ How do I make this dip vegan?

Simply substitute the feta and cream cheese with your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives for a delicious vegan version.

→ What are some serving suggestions?

Enjoy with pita chips, crostini, or raw vegetables. Spread it on sandwiches or swirl into warm pasta for extra flavor.

→ Can I prepare the dip in advance?

Yes, you can make it up to two days ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.