Description
A creamy, tangy, and flavorful dip featuring a blend of green olives, feta cheese, and cream cheese, accented with lemon and roasted red pepper. Perfect as a party appetizer or snack, this Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip offers a delightful balance of salty, zesty, and slightly spicy notes, ideal for serving with pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables.
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
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a food processor, add the green olives, crumbled feta cheese, cream cheese, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Blend the mixture until smooth but still slightly textured for a pleasant bite.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: Add the chopped roasted red pepper, dried oregano, chili flakes if using, and freshly ground black pepper to the processor. Pulse 2 to 3 times to incorporate these ingredients while keeping some chunks for texture.
- Prepare for Serving: Spoon the dip into a serving jar or bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and garnish with whole green olives on top for presentation.
- Chill to Marry Flavors: Refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Serve: Offer the dip chilled with pita chips, crostini, or fresh raw vegetables as dippers for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- This dip can be made a day ahead to enhance the flavor even more.
- For a milder version, omit the chili flakes or reduce the amount.
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can be served with assorted crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies beyond the suggested dippers.
