Description
This Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip is a creamy and flavorful spread combining green olives, tangy feta, and smooth cream cheese with a hint of lemon and garlic. Enhanced with roasted red pepper, oregano, and a touch of chili flakes, it’s perfect for serving with pita chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables as a delightful appetizer or snack.
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 until the mixture is smooth but still slightly textured to maintain some bite.
- Add seasoning and roasted pepper: Add the chopped roasted red pepper, dried oregano, chili flakes if using, and freshly ground black pepper to the food processor. Pulse 2-3 times to combine ingredients just enough to keep some chunky texture in the dip.
- Transfer and top: Spoon the dip into a serving jar or bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish on top with two whole green olives for decoration and added flavor.
- Chill to meld flavors: Refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and develop fully, enhancing the taste experience.
- Serve: Present the chilled dip with pita chips, crostini, or a selection of raw vegetables for dipping, making a perfect appetizer or snack for gatherings.
Notes
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor impact.
- Adjust chili flakes based on your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dip.
- For a smoother texture, blend the dip longer, but some texture adds a nice bite.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a slightly different flavor profile.
