Description
This creamy and savory Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is a quick and delicious appetizer or snack option that combines tangy cream cheese with chopped green olives and a medley of flavorful seasonings. Enhanced with Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and fresh parsley, this spread is perfect for serving on crackers, bread, or as a sandwich filling. Ready in just 40 minutes, it offers a delightful balance of creamy texture and zesty flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Spread Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup green olives (pitted and chopped)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes until it becomes soft and spreadable. This step ensures easier blending of ingredients.
- Prepare the Olives: Pit and finely chop the green olives to release their flavors evenly throughout the spread.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped olives, mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, lemon juice (if using), and salt. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a smooth spread.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the spread and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Chill the Spread: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the spread for at least 15 minutes before serving. Chilling helps meld the flavors together and firms up the texture slightly.
- Serve: Transfer the chilled spread to a serving dish and enjoy with crackers, toasted baguette slices, fresh vegetables, or as desired.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend the ingredients in a food processor instead of mixing by hand.
- The mayonnaise and lemon juice are optional but add extra creaminess and tanginess respectively.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Try variations by adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Perfect for parties, picnics, or a quick snack at home.
