Mediterranean Feta and Olive Creamy Spread
This Mediterranean-inspired spread bursts with flavors of feta cheese and tangy olives, making it a perfect complement for grilled meats, burgers, fish, or even as a unique dip for crackers and veggies. The creamy blend of mayonnaise and feta with a hint of garlic ensures that every bite is both savory and refreshing. Be mindful when adding garlic, as its flavor intensifies over time. Prepare in advance to let the flavors meld together for a deliciously intense taste the next day.
3
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
kalamata olives
1/4 cup (pitted and chopped)
mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
fresh garlic
2 teaspoons (minced)
dried oregano
2 teaspoons (none)
feta cheese
1/4 cup (crumbled)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
fresh lemon juice
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Place the pitted kalamata olives in a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped.
2
Add in the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and dried oregano to the chopped olives. Process until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
3
Introduce crumbled feta cheese to the food processor and pulse lightly to incorporate. Ensure the spread maintains a slightly chunky texture for added bite.
4
Season the mixture with freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Optionally, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added for a subtle kick.
5
Once the desired taste is achieved, transfer the spread to an airtight container.
6
Refrigerate the spread for at least 5 hours to allow the flavors to develop. For best results, let it chill overnight.
7
Before serving, give the spread a stir and taste for seasoning adjustments.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Feta and Olive Creamy Spread?
It is a savory, Mediterranean-inspired spread made with feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a creamy mayonnaise base, perfect for meats or as a dip.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients are kalamata olives, mayonnaise, fresh garlic, dried oregano, feta cheese, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice.
How should I prepare the olives?
The olives should be pitted and coarsely chopped in a food processor before adding other ingredients.
What type of olives are used in this spread?
This recipe specifically calls for 1/4 cup of pitted kalamata olives.
How do I make the spread creamy?
You achieve creaminess by processing the mayonnaise, garlic, and oregano with the olives until the mixture is smooth.
When should the feta cheese be added?
Add the crumbled feta cheese after the base mixture has reached a smooth and creamy consistency.
Why shouldn't I over-process the feta?
The feta should be pulsed lightly so the spread maintains a slightly chunky texture for a better bite.
How long does this spread need to refrigerate?
It should be refrigerated for at least 5 hours, though letting it chill overnight provides the best results.
Why is a long refrigeration period necessary?
Chilling allows the various flavors, particularly the garlic and oregano, to develop and meld together.
What can I serve with this Mediterranean spread?
It is a perfect complement for grilled meats, burgers, fish, or can be used as a dip for crackers and vegetables.
Can I add a spicy element to the spread?
Yes, you can optionally add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of minced fresh garlic.
What should I know about using fresh garlic in this recipe?
Be mindful when adding it, as the garlic flavor intensifies the longer the spread sits.
How do I season the spread?
Season the mixture to taste with freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly ground black pepper.
What is the recommended storage method?
The spread should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What should I do right before serving?
Before serving, give the spread a good stir and taste it to see if any seasoning adjustments are needed.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 3 servings.
Is there a specific amount of oregano to use?
Yes, the recipe requires 2 teaspoons of dried oregano.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While you can, the recipe suggests freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor profile.
What texture should the final spread have?
The final spread should be creamy but with a slightly chunky texture from the feta and olives.
Is this spread suitable for a keto diet?
Given the high fat content from mayo, feta, and olives with low carbs, it is generally keto-friendly.
Can I use this as a burger topping?
Absolutely, it is specifically mentioned as a perfect addition to burgers.
How many ingredients total are in this recipe?
There are 7 ingredients in this recipe.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
While mayonnaise provides the base creaminess, you could try Greek yogurt, though it will change the tanginess.
Do I need a food processor for this?
A food processor is recommended to get the olives chopped and the base smooth.
Can I use green olives instead of kalamata?
You can, but the flavor will be less traditional and more salty/briny compared to the rich taste of kalamata.
Is this spread gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your mayonnaise and feta labels to be sure.
How much feta is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
Can I make this spread in advance?
Yes, making it a day in advance is actually recommended for better flavor.
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The garlic should be finely minced before being added to the food processor.