Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip – Creamy Feta & Green Olive Spread Recipe
This Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip is a creamy, flavorful spread combining the salty tang of feta cheese and the briny bite of green olives. Enhanced with roasted red pepper, garlic, and lemon zest, it’s perfect for serving as an appetizer with pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables. Easy to prepare in a food processor, this dip is an elegant yet simple addition to any snack or party platter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup (serves 6 as an appetizer) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 200 g green olives (pitted)
- 150 g feta cheese (crumbled)
- 100 g cream cheese (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of ½ lemon
Add-ins
- 1 roasted red pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Topping (Optional)
- 2 whole green olives
- Drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a food processor, combine the pitted green olives, crumbled feta cheese, cream cheese at room temperature, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth but retains a slightly textured consistency, ensuring a creamy yet interesting dip texture.
- Add seasonings and flavor enhancers: Add the chopped roasted red pepper, dried oregano, chili flakes if using, and freshly ground black pepper to the food processor. Pulse 2 to 3 times to mix while keeping some chunks for added texture and flavor contrast.
- Transfer and top the dip: Spoon the blended dip into a serving jar or bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and top with two whole green olives for garnish and an extra burst of olive flavor.
- Chill to meld flavors: Place the dip into the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Serve: Serve the chilled dip with pita chips, crostini, or an assortment of raw vegetables for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Using cream cheese at room temperature ensures smoother blending and a creamier texture.
- If you prefer a spicier dip, adjust chili flakes to taste or omit for a milder flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Letting the dip rest in the fridge helps the flavors develop fully, but it can also be served immediately if needed.
Keywords: olive dip, feta spread, green olive dip, Mediterranean appetizer, party dip, creamy olive spread
