Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip – Creamy Feta & Green Olive Spread Recipe
This Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip is a creamy and flavorful spread combining tangy feta, briny green olives, and a hint of lemon zest. Enhanced with roasted red pepper and aromatic oregano, this versatile dip is perfect for serving with pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables. Quick to prepare and packed with Mediterranean flavors, it’s an ideal appetizer or snack for olive enthusiasts.
- Author: Tara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 1.5 cups (serves 6 as an appetizer) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- 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 the mixture until it becomes smooth with a slightly textured consistency, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add additional flavors: 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 the ingredients while maintaining some chunks for texture within the dip.
- Transfer and garnish: Spoon the blended dip into a jar or serving bowl. Drizzle the top with a little olive oil and place two whole green olives on top as a garnish to enhance presentation and add extra olive flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dip for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, intensifying the taste and improving the texture for serving.
- Serve: Once chilled, serve the dip with your choice of pita chips, crostini, or an assortment of raw vegetables for dipping and enjoying the creamy, tangy Mediterranean spread.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending and a smoother texture.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if you prefer a milder dip.
- For a tangier flavor, add a bit more lemon juice.
- This dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature depending on preference.
Keywords: olive dip, feta dip, green olive spread, Mediterranean appetizer, creamy dip, roasted red pepper, snack, party dip