Description
The Best Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip is a rich and savory appetizer combining the vibrant flavors of mixed green and black olives with creamy cream cheese, fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it offers a perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess, ideal for parties, snacks, or any gathering. This naturally gluten-free dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, breads, and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed olives (green and Kalamata), drained and roughly chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or basil), finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Variations
- Vegan alternative: use 8 oz cashew cream or coconut yogurt instead of cream cheese
- Spicy addition: 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped or increased red pepper flakes
- Cheese lovers: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or shredded Parmesan
- Nutty flavor: 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for garnish
- Herb boost: substitute or add rosemary, thyme, or dill
Instructions
- Prepare the Olives: Drain the mixed olives thoroughly and roughly chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure their flavor is evenly distributed in the dip.
- Blend the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming a balanced base.
- Incorporate Olives and Herbs: Gently fold in the chopped olives along with the finely chopped fresh herbs to maintain a lively texture and highlight each ingredient’s flavor.
- Season to Taste: Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste the dip and adjust the seasonings as needed for a harmonious, vibrant flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving. Garnish as desired with extra virgin olive oil, fresh herbs, whole olives, or nuts.
Notes
- Use high-quality, fresh olives to maximize flavor.
- Chilling the dip enhances flavor blending and improves texture.
- Remove pits from olives beforehand to save time and improve eating experience.
- Do not overblend; keep some olive chunks for texture.
- Adjust lemon juice carefully to balance brightness without overpowering.
- Serve with warm pita, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- This dip is best served chilled or at room temperature; avoid reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: olive dip, olive lovers, appetizer, savory dip, creamy dip, Mediterranean snack, party dip, gluten free dip
