Tangy Cream Cheese & Olive Spread Recipe for Fresh Snacking

Whipping up a delectable cream cheese & olive spread can turn an ordinary gathering into a memorable culinary adventure.

Creamy textures blend beautifully with briny olive notes for an unexpected twist.

Mediterranean influences dance across this simple appetizer, creating complex flavor profiles.

Sharp cheddar might feel jealous of this delightful combination.

Sophisticated yet approachable, you’ll adore how effortlessly this spread comes together.

Casual entertaining becomes elegant with such a smart recipe choice.

Gather some crackers and prepare to impress everyone at your next social event.

Cream Cheese and Olive Spread Details

• Cream Cheese: Soft, rich base that provides creamy texture and tangy flavor. Full-fat version recommended for best consistency.
• Mayonnaise: Adds extra creaminess and helps bind ingredients. Choose real, classic mayonnaise for traditional taste.
• Olive Brine: Provides a salty, briny liquid that enhances overall flavor profile. Liquid from olive jar works perfectly.

• Sliced Olives, Green Olives: Adds salty, sharp flavor and interesting texture. Pitted olives preferred for easier eating. Mediterranean or Spanish varieties work best.

Cream Cheese & Olive Spread Preparation Tips

Step 1: Whip Up the Creamy Base

Grab your hand mixer and combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and olive brine.

Blend these ingredients until they transform into a silky, smooth texture that’s perfect for spreading.

The mixture should look light and fluffy, with no lumps remaining.

Step 2: Fold in the Olive Magic

Carefully introduce the sliced olives into the creamy mixture.

Use a gentle folding technique to distribute the olives evenly throughout the spread.

This ensures each bite will have a delightful burst of olive flavor.

Step 3: Chill and Serve

You have two fantastic options for enjoying this spread.

Serve it immediately for an instant flavor explosion, or pop it into the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.

Chilling allows the flavors to mingle and develop a more intense taste profile.

The spread becomes even more delectable as it rests and the ingredients get to know each other.

Spread Tips For Olive & Cream Cheese Blends

• Beat ingredients at room temperature for smoother, lump-free texture that spreads effortlessly.
• Slice olives uniformly to ensure consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
• Let spread chill in refrigerator for 1-2 hours to allow ingredients to meld and intensify taste profile.
• Use as a dip, sandwich spread, or appetizer topping for crackers and fresh vegetables.
• Add minced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Cream Cheese & Olive Spread: Keep it Smooth After Day One

• Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly to prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Transfer the spread to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• This spread is best enjoyed cold. If slightly hardened, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before serving.
• Discard if you notice any off smells, unusual color changes, or signs of spoilage. Fresh ingredients ensure the best taste and safety.

Salty Ideas For Olive Spread

• Pair with Crisp Crackers: Select water crackers or thin wheat crackers that provide a delicate crunch and neutral base, allowing the tangy olive spread to shine without overwhelming its delicate flavor profile.
• Complement with Dry White Wine: Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that offers bright acidity and light minerality, perfectly balancing the richness of the cream cheese and briny olive notes.
• Match with Fresh Vegetable Platter: Arrange sliced cucumber, bell peppers, and celery sticks alongside the spread, creating a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture and offering a healthy, crunchy alternative to traditional bread or crackers.
• Enhance with Charcuterie Selection: Add mild salami or prosciutto to the plate, providing a salty protein component that complements the olive spread's tangy and creamy characteristics.

Rich Cream Cheese & Olive Spread Styles

• Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Replace olive brine with fresh chopped herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired spread.
• Vegan Cashew Alternative: Swap cream cheese with blended cashews and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, plant-based version that maintains creamy texture.
• Low-Fat Greek Yogurt Option: Substitute mayonnaise and some cream cheese with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add protein while keeping a tangy flavor profile.
• Spicy Jalapeño Kick: Mix in finely diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicier appetizer spread with added heat and complexity.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of olives?

Yes, you can experiment with green, black, or kalamata olives for unique flavor profiles. Just ensure they’re finely sliced to blend well into the spread.

• Is this spread suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

The spread contains dairy and eggs, so it’s not vegan or dairy-free. Those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies should avoid it.

• How long can I keep this spread in the refrigerator?

The spread stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

• What are the best ways to serve this spread?

It’s perfect as a dip for crackers, a sandwich spread, a topping for bagels, or a quick appetizer when served with vegetables and bread.

Cream Cheese Olive Spread That’s Savory Tangy And Addictive

• Savor Quick Prep: This spread takes only 10 minutes to make, perfect for spontaneous gatherings or sudden snack cravings.
• Versatile Serving Option: Easily spread on crackers, toast, bagels, or use as a dip for vegetables, making it adaptable for multiple occasions and preferences.
• Flavor-Packed Simplicity: Combining tangy cream cheese with briny olives creates a rich, sophisticated taste without requiring advanced culinary skills or complicated techniques.
• Advance Friendly Preparation: Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, allowing busy hosts to prepare in advance and reduce last-minute stress during entertaining.

Cream Cheese & Olive Spread Recipe

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4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy cream cheese & olive spread brings Mediterranean flavors to your appetizer table with zesty green olives and smooth cream cheese. Rich textures and tangy notes create a perfect party starter that invites you to savor each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese
• 1 cup sliced green olives with pimiento

Binding Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons olive brine

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Instructions

1. Whip cream cheese, mayonnaise, and olive brine with an electric mixer until the consistency transforms into a silky, uniform base with no lumps.
2. Delicately incorporate sliced olives throughout the mixture, ensuring even distribution and maintaining the spread’s light texture.
3. For optimal taste development, chill the spread in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify before serving.
4. When ready to enjoy, transfer the spread to a serving dish and pair with crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable crudités.

Notes

• Opt for room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smoother, more blendable consistency when mixing.
• Experiment with different olive varieties like Kalamata or green olives to add unique flavor profiles and textures to the spread.
• Consider draining excess olive brine to control the moisture level and prevent the spread from becoming too runny.
• Enhance the dip’s richness by adding a pinch of garlic powder or finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives for extra depth of flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 460 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg