Savory Olive Cream Cheese Spread
Indulge in this deliciously unique Savory Olive Cream Cheese Spread that is sure to impress even the most discerning taste buds. Blending the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the briny tang of black and green olives, this dip offers a delightful burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips, crispy pretzels, or as a zesty spread for sandwiches. Whether you're hosting a gathering, enjoying a game day snack, or looking for a quick bite, this dip is both easy to prepare and absolutely delectable.
16
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cream Cheese
16 ounces (softened)
Chopped Black Olives
4 ounces (drained)
Grated Onion
1 tablespoon (finely grated with juice)
Green Olive Brine
1/4 cup (from jarred green olives)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, drained chopped black olives, grated onion with its juices, and green olive brine.
2
Using a hand mixer, blend the ingredients on medium speed until they are well incorporated and smooth.
3
Increase the speed to high and whip the mixture for an additional 10 to 15 seconds, ensuring it is fluffy and creamy.
4
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Serve chilled with your choice of tortilla chips, pretzels, or as a flavorful sandwich spread.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Olive Cream Cheese Spread?
It is a creamy dip that blends softened cream cheese with black olives, grated onion, and green olive brine for a savory, tangy flavor profile.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 16 servings, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
What are the primary ingredients in this olive spread?
The main ingredients include 16 ounces of cream cheese, 4 ounces of chopped black olives, 1 tablespoon of finely grated onion with its juice, and 1/4 cup of green olive brine.
How should the cream cheese be prepared?
The cream cheese should be softened at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
Do I need to drain the black olives?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the chopped black olives should be drained before being added to the mixture.
Where do I get the green olive brine?
The green olive brine is simply the liquid taken directly from a jar of green olives.
How is the onion prepared for this recipe?
The onion should be finely grated, and you should include the juices released during the grating process for extra flavor.
What equipment is needed to mix the spread?
A hand mixer is recommended to blend the ingredients on medium speed and then whip them on high speed.
How do I achieve a fluffy texture for the dip?
After the ingredients are smooth, increase the mixer speed to high and whip the mixture for an additional 10 to 15 seconds.
Does the spread need to be refrigerated before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to refrigerate the spread for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld properly.
What can I serve with this Savory Olive Cream Cheese Spread?
This spread pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips, crispy pretzels, or as a zesty spread for sandwiches.
Is this recipe suitable for game day snacks?
Absolutely, its savory flavor and easy preparation make it an excellent choice for game day or any casual gathering.
Can I use this recipe as a sandwich spread?
Yes, it works wonderfully as a flavorful and creamy addition to various types of sandwiches.
What category of food does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under Spreads and can also be served as an appetizer or dip.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 4 main ingredients required: cream cheese, black olives, onion, and green olive brine.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, the active preparation time is very short, involving only mixing and a brief whipping stage.
Can I make this spread for a brunch?
Yes, the savory and creamy profile makes it a great addition to a brunch menu, especially served with bagels or crackers.
What type of flavor profile should I expect?
Expect a rich, creamy base with a briny tang from the olives and a subtle zest from the grated onion.
Can I use green olives instead of black olives?
While the recipe calls for chopped black olives, you could substitute with chopped green olives if you prefer a more tart flavor.
Is the spread served hot or cold?
This spread is served chilled after being refrigerated for at least an hour.
How long can I store this dip in the refrigerator?
When kept in an airtight container, cream cheese-based dips generally stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
Can I use a food processor instead of a hand mixer?
Yes, a food processor can be used, but be careful not to over-process if you want to maintain some texture from the chopped olives.
Is this spread gluten-free?
The spread ingredients themselves are generally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your specific brands and serve with gluten-free chips or crackers.
How much black olives are needed?
The recipe requires 4 ounces of chopped black olives.
Can I skip the green olive brine?
The brine adds significant flavor and saltiness; skipping it may result in a less flavorful spread.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe makes 16 servings, usually measured as a few tablespoons per serving.
Can I add garlic to this spread?
Yes, adding a bit of minced garlic or garlic powder would complement the savory olive and onion flavors well.
Is this dip vegetarian?
Yes, this Savory Olive Cream Cheese Spread is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel) can be used, though the final result may be slightly less rich.
What makes this spread a good choice for entertaining?
It is quick to make, uses common ingredients, and offers a unique savory flavor that appeals to many guests.