Description
This Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip is a creamy and flavorful spread combining tangy feta, briny green olives, and a hint of lemon zest. Perfectly balanced with a touch of garlic, roasted red pepper, and herbs, this dip is an enticing appetizer or snack that pairs wonderfully 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
- Blend Base Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the 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.
- Add Flavorings: 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 mix these add-ins in while maintaining some chunkiness for texture.
- Transfer and Garnish: Spoon the dip into a serving jar or bowl. Drizzle a little olive oil on top and place two whole green olives as an optional decorative and flavorful topping.
- Chill to Meld Flavors: Place the dip in the refrigerator and chill it for 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to develop and combine beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the creamy feta and green olive spread with pita chips, crostini, or raw vegetables for dipping. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use pitted green olives for easier blending.
- Roasted red pepper can be canned or homemade for added sweetness and smokiness.
- Chili flakes are optional; omit if you prefer a milder dip.
- The dip can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container to enhance flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
