If you love dips and spreads that bring a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your table, this Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the tangy saltiness of feta and the bold, briny punch of Kalamata and green olives. This spread is incredibly easy to whip up yet delivers a sophisticated taste that will have everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a savory snack, this spread is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread Recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each bringing something special to the mix. From creamy and tangy to salty and fresh, these ingredients come together to create a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base that makes the spread smooth and luscious.
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a salty tang and crumbly texture that complements the cream cheese perfectly.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped: Brings a rich, deep olive flavor with a hint of fruitiness.
- 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and chopped: Provides a sharper, slightly tangy olive note to balance the Kalamata.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Enhances richness while giving the spread a silky finish.
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty kick that lifts all the flavors.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Introduces aromatic depth and a subtle bite.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Infuses a classic Mediterranean herb flavor that ties everything together.
- Fresh black pepper to taste: Gives a bit of spice and warmth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a burst of color and fresh herbaceousness.
How to Make Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread Recipe
Step 1: Mix Cream Cheese and Feta
Start by combining your softened cream cheese and crumbled feta in a medium bowl. Use a spoon or a spatula to mix them together until the texture is smooth and creamy. This step sets the foundation for your spread’s luxurious mouthfeel.
Step 2: Add Olives and Seasonings
Next, stir in the chopped Kalamata and green olives. Then add the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Mix everything thoroughly so every bite is bursting with these vibrant flavors. The olives provide that signature briny complexity that brings this spread alive.
Step 3: Season and Adjust
Season with freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Taste and if you want, adjust with a bit more lemon juice or oregano to tailor it perfectly to your palate. This is your chance to add a personal touch, so don’t be shy!
Step 4: Chill
For the best flavor experience, pop the spread in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows all the components to meld beautifully, intensifying the overall taste and making your Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread Recipe truly shine.
Step 5: Serve
Once chilled, you’re ready to serve and wow your guests or snack on this tasty spread anytime. Garnishing with fresh parsley can make it look as good as it tastes!
How to Serve Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a simple way to brighten the spread visually and add a refreshing bite. If you want to go further, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few whole olives on top can elevate the presentation even more.
Side Dishes
This spread pairs incredibly well with warm pita bread, crisp crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. It’s also fantastic alongside grilled meats or as part of a mezze platter that invites sharing and chatting over good food.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not spoon the spread into a pretty bowl and place it on a wooden serving board surrounded by colorful vegetables and rustic bread? You could also stuff it into mini pita pockets for bite-sized treats or wrap it in grape leaves for a unique twist. The Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread Recipe is versatile and fun to serve any way you like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy it again as a quick snack or appetizer without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
While you can freeze this spread, it’s best eaten fresh for optimal taste and creaminess. If you do freeze it, place in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. A thorough stir may be needed as texture can change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
This spread is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Simply let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving if you want a smoother and softer texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of olives in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with olives like Castelvetrano for a milder taste or spicy olives to add heat. Just make sure to pit and chop them finely to maintain the spread’s texture.
Is this spread suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it’s a great low-carb option thanks to the cheese and olives. Just be mindful of what you serve it with, opting for low-carb crackers or veggies instead of bread.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Since the star ingredients are cheeses, this recipe isn’t naturally vegan. However, you could try substituting vegan cream cheese and vegan feta alternatives, though flavors and texture will differ somewhat.
How long does the flavor improve in the fridge?
The flavors really start to come together after about 30 minutes of chilling, but if you can refrigerate it overnight, the taste melds even better, creating a richer and more harmonious spread.
What are some other uses for this spread?
Try this spread as a sandwich filling, dolloped onto baked potatoes, or as a flavorful topping for grilled chicken or fish. Its creamy and tangy profile adds a delicious twist to many dishes.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread Recipe enough when it comes to quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dishes. It’s simple to make yet packs so much flavor that every bite feels special. So go ahead, make a batch, share it with friends, or savor it all to yourself—you’re going to love it!
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Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A tangy and creamy Mediterranean-inspired olive spread combining the richness of cream cheese and feta cheese with the briny flavors of Kalamata and green olives. Perfect as a dip or spread for crackers, pita bread, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Cheeses
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
Olives & Seasonings
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Mix Cream Cheese and Feta: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and crumbled feta. Mix well until smooth and creamy to create the spread base.
- Add Olives and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped Kalamata olives, green olives, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Season: Add freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning by adding more lemon juice or oregano if preferred to enhance the flavors.
- Chill: Refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify before serving.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve chilled with crackers, pita bread, or fresh vegetables as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Chilling the spread improves the flavor and texture, making it creamier and more cohesive.
- This spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a smoother texture, pulse the ingredients briefly in a food processor instead of mixing by hand.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
