Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread

If you’re in the mood for a dip that’s a little tangy, a little salty, and a whole lot of creamy goodness, this Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread is exactly what you need. Imagine the richness of cream cheese paired with the briny bite of olives and the crumbled feta that adds just the right amount of tang. It’s savory, smooth, and perfect for spreading on crackers, pita, or even fresh veggies. Trust me, this spread is going to be your new go-to for parties, snacks, or just as a savory bite whenever you need it.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this spread comes together in a flash and delivers big on flavor. Plus, it’s totally customizable, so you can add your favorite olives or herbs to make it your own!

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread

Savory and Tangy Flavor

With the combination of cream cheese, feta, and olives, this spread offers the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and briny flavors that make it utterly irresistible.

Quick and Easy

It takes just minutes to whip up! Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something impressive and flavorful to serve.

Versatile

This spread can be used as a dip, sandwich spread, or even a topping for crackers, toast, or pita bread. It’s the perfect appetizer for any occasion!

Customizable

Add in your favorite herbs like fresh oregano, basil, or even a little chili flake for a touch of heat. You can adjust the olives and feta to your taste for a more intense or milder flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing

It’s an instant hit at parties or family gatherings. Both kids and adults will love the richness of the cream cheese and the salty burst from the olives!

Ingredients

• Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base that gives the spread its rich texture. You can use full-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese depending on your preference.
• Feta Cheese: Adds a tangy, slightly crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with the olives and cream cheese.
• Olives: Green, black, or a mix of both! The briny flavor of olives is what gives this spread its signature punch. You can use Kalamata olives for a more Mediterranean twist.
• Garlic: Adds a subtle depth of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy cheeses and salty olives.
• Olive Oil: Helps bring everything together, giving the spread a smooth, easy-to-spread consistency.
• Fresh Herbs: Optional, but a little oregano, parsley, or basil can really elevate the flavors.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice helps balance the richness and adds a little zest.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 2 tablespoons per serving):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 280mg
• Potassium: 70mg
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 2% DV

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Olives

Start by finely chopping your olives. You can use green, black, or a mix of both, depending on your flavor preference. If you like a smoother texture, you can pulse them in a food processor, but make sure to leave some small chunks for a bit of texture.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, chopped olives, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until it’s fully incorporated and smooth. If the spread feels too thick, you can add a bit more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs (Optional)

For an extra pop of flavor, stir in some fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or basil. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and a lovely, aromatic touch to the spread.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your spread and add more lemon juice, garlic, or even a pinch of salt and pepper to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Remember that the olives and feta already add a lot of salt, so go easy on the added salt.

Step 5: Chill (Optional)

While you can enjoy this spread right away, letting it chill in the fridge for an hour or so will allow the flavors to meld together and intensify. It also firms up a little, making it even easier to spread!

Step 6: Serve

Serve with crackers, toasted pita bread, fresh veggies, or spread it on a sandwich or wrap. It’s delicious on anything, and I promise it won’t last long!

How to Serve Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread

With Crackers

Pair this spread with your favorite crackers, whether they’re salty, crunchy, or buttery. The creamy spread will be the perfect contrast to the crisp crackers.

On Toast or Pita Bread

Spread it on warm, toasted pita bread or baguette slices for a simple yet satisfying snack or appetizer.

As a Dip for Veggies

This spread works wonders as a dip for fresh veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or carrot sticks. It’s a great way to get your veggie fix with a little added flavor.

Sandwich Spread

Spread this on sandwiches or wraps to add a flavorful punch. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even falafel for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

With Grilled Meats

This spread also makes a delicious accompaniment to grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or steak. The tangy feta and briny olives bring a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat.

Additional Tips

Make It Spicy

If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spread. It’ll give the olive spread a kick and a subtle warmth.

Use Different Olives

Feel free to experiment with different types of olives—try Kalamata olives for a more robust flavor, or green olives for a milder taste. You can also add a mix of both!

Make It Dairy-Free

For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and plant-based feta alternatives. Just make sure to check the flavors and salt levels, as they might differ from the dairy versions.

Store Leftovers

Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will only get better as they sit! Just give it a good stir before serving.

Make It Ahead

You can easily make this spread ahead of time. It actually tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead for parties or gatherings.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use any kind of olives for this spread?
A1: Yes! You can use green, black, Kalamata, or any variety of your choice. The olives are the star of the spread, so pick the kind you like best.

Q2: How long does this spread last?
A2: This spread will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Q3: Can I freeze this spread?
A3: Freezing is not recommended for this spread, as the texture may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

Q4: How can I make this spread spicier?
A4: Add red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the mix. A dash of cayenne pepper works great too!

Q5: Can I substitute the feta cheese?
A5: Yes! You can substitute the feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or even a creamy cheese like cream cheese if you prefer a milder flavor.

Q6: Is this spread gluten-free?
A6: Yes, the spread itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread if you need a completely gluten-free option.

Q7: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A7: Absolutely! You can use dried oregano, basil, or parsley. Just be sure to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Q8: What can I serve with this spread?
A8: This spread pairs wonderfully with crackers, pita bread, veggies, or even as a topping for toast or sandwiches.

Q9: Can I make this spread vegan?
A9: Yes, simply swap out the cream cheese and feta for vegan alternatives, and you’ve got yourself a dairy-free version of this spread.

Q10: Can I make this spread in advance?
A10: Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, so it’s perfect for prepping the day before a gathering or party.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese & Feta Olive Spread is a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal or snack. With the creamy richness of cream cheese, the tangy feta, and the briny olives, this spread is packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a party, spreading it on toast, or just enjoying it as a dip, it’s sure to become a crowd favorite. So whip it up, dig in, and enjoy every savory bite!

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