Name: Cream Cheese & Olive Spread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup green olives with pimentos, finely chopped; 1/4 cup black olives, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

This Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is a quick and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings or a simple snack. The combination of creamy cheese and briny olives creates a deliciously savory treat that pairs beautifully with crackers or fresh veggies.

The image shows a clear glass jar filled with a creamy, white cheese spread mixed with small bits of green herbs and dark red sun-dried tomato pieces. The top layer of the spread is garnished with three whole green olives and drizzled with golden olive oil, giving it a shiny, fresh look. The jar sits on a wooden board with blurred red tomatoes and a white marbled surface in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup green olives with pimentos, finely chopped
1/4 cup black olives, finely chopped
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped green and black olives, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Taste the mixture and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 3: If desired, stir in chopped fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the spread for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve chilled with crackers, toast points, or fresh vegetables.

Tips & Variations

Use different types of olives like kalamata for a deeper flavor or add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
For a smoother texture, blend the mixture briefly in a food processor before chilling.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your spread.

Storage

Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, give it a stir and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften. This spread is best enjoyed chilled and fresh.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar filled with creamy white cheese mixed with small bits of dark red sun-dried tomatoes and green herbs, spread evenly throughout in layers; the top layer is thick and fluffy with a smooth texture, decorated with three large green olives and scattered pieces of sun-dried tomatoes, all resting on a wooden board with a blurred background showing red tomatoes; photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the spread may be less creamy and rich compared to using full-fat cream cheese.

Is it possible to make this spread ahead of time?

Absolutely. Preparing the spread a few hours or even a day in advance helps the flavors to blend beautifully. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.