Mediterranean Green Olive Delight
This vibrant Mediterranean Green Olive Delight is a flavorful dip that embodies the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East. Originating from the beautiful regions of Palestine and Jordan, this dip combines the earthy taste of green olives with the nutty creaminess of tahini, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, zesty lemon juice, and a hint of garlic. It's perfect for serving as an appetizer at gatherings or enjoying as a spread with pita bread or fresh vegetables. Easy to whip up and sure to impress your guests, this dip is not just a tasty treat, but a celebration of healthful Mediterranean ingredients.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
green olives
2 cups (pitted and rinsed)
tahini
4 tablespoons (none)
fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons (chopped)
fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon (none)
garlic cloves
2 (crushed)
cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
small tomato
1 (finely chopped, for garnish)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (to drizzle on top)
Instructions
1
Begin by pitting and rinsing the green olives thoroughly to remove any excess brine.
2
In a blender, combine the green olives, tahini, chopped cilantro, fresh lemon juice, crushed garlic, and cayenne pepper.
3
Blend the mixture on high until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency, scraping down the sides as needed.
4
Transfer the olive dip to a serving platter, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5
Cover the dip with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6
Before serving, garnish the dip with finely chopped tomatoes, and drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil on top.
7
Serve with toasted pita wedges, fresh vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Green Olive Delight?
Mediterranean Green Olive Delight is a vibrant and flavorful dip that combines green olives, tahini, cilantro, lemon juice, and garlic, originating from Middle Eastern culinary traditions.
Where does this olive dip recipe originate from?
This dip originates from the beautiful Middle Eastern regions of Palestine and Jordan.
Is Mediterranean Green Olive Delight vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan as it contains no animal products.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this olive dip are naturally gluten-free.
What are the main ingredients in this dip?
The main ingredients include green olives, tahini, fresh cilantro, lemon juice, garlic, cayenne pepper, tomato, and olive oil.
How should I prepare the green olives for this recipe?
The green olives should be pitted and rinsed thoroughly to remove any excess brine before being added to the blender.
What is tahini and why is it used?
Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds; it provides a nutty creaminess that balances the saltiness of the olives.
Can I substitute the cilantro in this recipe?
If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can try substituting it with fresh parsley for a different herbal profile.
How much garlic is required for the Mediterranean Green Olive Delight?
The recipe calls for 2 cloves of crushed garlic.
Is this olive dip spicy?
It has a very subtle hint of heat from 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, but it is not considered a spicy dish.
How do I achieve a smooth consistency for the dip?
Blend the mixture on high in a blender, scraping down the sides as needed, until it is creamy and smooth.
How long should I refrigerate the dip before serving?
You should refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to properly meld together.
What should I use to garnish the dip?
Garnish the dip with one finely chopped small tomato and a drizzle of olive oil.
What are the best items to serve with this olive delight?
It is best served with toasted pita wedges, fresh vegetables, or as part of a larger mezze platter.
Can I use black olives instead of green olives?
While you can use black olives, the flavor profile will change. Green olives provide the specific earthy tang characteristic of this Mediterranean dish.
Is this a healthy snack option?
Yes, it is considered a healthy choice as it uses wholesome Mediterranean ingredients like olives, tahini, and fresh herbs.
How many ingredients are in the Mediterranean Green Olive Delight?
There are 8 ingredients in total, including the garnish and oil drizzle.
Can I make this dip without a blender?
A food processor is a great alternative to a blender for achieving the desired creamy consistency.
How should I store leftover olive dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Can I freeze this olive dip?
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the tahini and the fresh cilantro.
Should I use fresh or bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended to provide the best zesty flavor for this recipe.
What type of olive oil is best for the drizzle?
A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is best for drizzling on top to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for a mezze platter?
Yes, it is a perfect addition to a mezze platter alongside hummus, tabbouleh, and falafel.
Can I use this dip as a spread?
Absolutely, it works wonderfully as a spread for pita bread, sandwiches, or wraps.
Is there a substitute for cayenne pepper?
You can use a pinch of paprika for color without the heat, or omit it entirely if you prefer no spice.
Does this recipe contain any cholesterol?
Based on the plant-based ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally cholesterol-free.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Yes, making it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
How much tahini is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 4 tablespoons of tahini.
What color should the final dip be?
The dip will have a beautiful light green hue due to the green olives and fresh cilantro.
Is it necessary to rinse the olives?
Rinsing is important to control the saltiness of the final dip, as olives are often stored in very salty brine.