If you’re searching for a flavorful and versatile dip that instantly elevates any gathering, this Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the creamy richness of softened cream cheese with the salty tang of feta and briny olives, this spread bursts with Mediterranean charm. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking to add an irresistible appetizer to your snack table, this recipe is a deliciously simple way to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor, creamy texture, and vibrant color that delight the senses.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Provides the smooth, creamy base that holds the spread together perfectly.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a sharp, salty tang to brighten the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup chopped black olives: Brings in a briny punch that complements the cheeses beautifully.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds silkiness and deep Mediterranean richness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Injects fresh acidity that balances the richness and adds zest.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): Infuses a savory depth that wakes up the palate.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill: Introduces a pop of green freshness and herbaceous aroma.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides just the right amount of warming spice.
- Optional pinch of red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat that livens up the spread.
How to Make Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe
Step 1: Soften and Cream the Base
Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. This ensures your spread will be luxuriously soft and easy to mix with the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Blend in Flavorful Ingredients
Add the crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic to the cream cheese. Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and the flavors start to marry.
Step 3: Fold in Olives and Herbs
Gently fold in the chopped olives along with the fresh parsley or dill, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This not only distributes these flavorful bits evenly but also keeps the texture delightfully varied.
Step 4: Chill to Meld Flavors
Cover the bowl and chill the spread in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows all the vibrant tastes to mingle and deepen, creating a harmonious and irresistible spread.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your spread with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill to add freshness and visual appeal that invites you to dig in.
Side Dishes
This spread pairs wonderfully with crunchy crackers, warm crostini, or crisp fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips. These sides make it easy to scoop up every last bit of that delicious Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, spoon the spread into a pretty serving bowl and surround it with an assortment of Mediterranean-inspired nibbles such as pita chips, roasted red peppers, or marinated artichoke hearts. You might also serve it in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or stuffed into endive leaves for charming bite-sized treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your spread, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
This Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen, as freezing may alter the texture of the cheeses and olives. If you do freeze it, expect a change in consistency and thaw slowly in the fridge to prevent separation.
Reheating
This spread is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. Simply take it out of the fridge 10 to 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier spreading.
FAQs
Can I use green olives instead of black olives?
Absolutely! You can use black olives, green olives, or a mix of both depending on your flavor preference. Each type adds its own personality to the spread, so feel free to experiment.
Is there a way to make this spread smoother?
Yes! If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse all the ingredients together in a food processor until creamy. This blends everything perfectly while keeping all the flavors intact.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This traditional recipe uses dairy cheeses, but you can substitute vegan cream cheese and a plant-based feta alternative to create a delicious vegan version of the Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe.
How long should I chill the spread before serving?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes is ideal to allow the flavors to meld nicely. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes helps, but the longer you wait, the better the taste.
What can I add to make it more dip-like?
Stirring in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream creates a creamier, more dip-like consistency while adding a subtle tang that complements the other flavors wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe is one of those must-have go-to appetizers that’s incredibly easy to whip up yet always feels special. It’s packed with flavor, texture, and that Mediterranean flair that will have everyone coming back for more. Give it a try at your next get-together—you might just discover your new favorite crowd-pleasing snack!
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Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and tangy Cream Cheese Feta Olive Spread is a quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer perfect for parties or casual snacking. Combining the smoothness of cream cheese with salty feta and briny olives, this versatile spread is enhanced with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon juice. Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Spread Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped black olives (or a mix of black and green olives)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. This creates the base for the spread, ensuring a rich and creamy texture.
- Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic into the cream cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined, creating a tangy and aromatic mixture.
- Incorporate Olives and Herbs: Gently fold in the chopped olives, fresh herbs (parsley or dill), black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until the olives and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the spread.
- Chill for Flavor Development: Cover the bowl and chill the spread in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
- Serve: Serve the spread cold or at room temperature alongside crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy the creamy, salty, and zesty flavors in every bite.
Notes
- For a smoother spread, pulse all ingredients in a food processor until well combined.
- To create a creamier, dip-like consistency, stir in 2–3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
