Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

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This Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is the perfect combination of rich, creamy texture and a savory, tangy bite. Whether you’re serving it at a party or simply enjoying it on a lazy afternoon, this spread is sure to become a favorite. The smooth cream cheese pairs effortlessly with the briny, flavorful olives, creating a harmonious balance that can be enjoyed with crackers, bread, or even fresh vegetables. Its easy preparation makes it an ideal option for when you’re short on time but still want to impress.

The addition of aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme enhances the overall flavor profile, while a drizzle of olive oil adds a smooth finish. This spread is versatile enough to be used as a dip or a topping for various dishes, offering both convenience and delightful taste in every bite. Simple yet packed with flavor, this recipe will elevate any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

This spread combines the best of both worlds – creamy richness and bold flavors. It’s incredibly versatile and works as a quick appetizer, snack, or even a delicious sandwich spread. Plus, it’s made with just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, so there’s no need for a trip to the store. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or indulging in a casual snack, this spread will always be a hit. The olives add a nice contrast to the cream cheese, making each bite uniquely satisfying.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

When it comes to preparing this Cream Cheese & Olive Spread, simplicity is key. However, having the right tools can make the process even easier and help achieve a smooth, well-blended spread. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl is necessary to combine all the ingredients evenly.
• Food Processor or Blender: For the smoothest texture, a food processor or blender is ideal. It helps break down the olives and mix everything together in a way that hand mixing can’t achieve.
• Spoon or Spatula: You’ll need a spoon or spatula to scrape the spread from the bowl or food processor and transfer it to your serving dish.
• Knife: If you need to chop the herbs or olives before adding them, a sharp knife will make the task quicker and cleaner.

Having these tools on hand ensures you achieve the perfect consistency and makes the preparation phase much smoother.

Preparation Tips

To make sure your Cream Cheese & Olive Spread turns out perfectly, consider these tips:

1. Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. This will ensure it blends smoothly without lumps.
2. Choose the Right Olives: Green or Kalamata olives both work well in this recipe. You can use them whole or chopped, depending on your texture preference.
3. Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs, like rosemary and thyme, bring an aromatic lift to the spread. Chop them finely so they blend easily into the spread.
4. Taste as You Go: Add salt and pepper slowly, tasting after each addition. Since olives can be salty, you may not need to add much extra salt.

These tips will help elevate your spread and make the preparation process even easier.

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Ingredients for this Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

To create this creamy, flavorful spread, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature): The base of the spread, providing that smooth and creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup green olives (pitted and chopped, or Kalamata olives, based on preference): These add a briny, tangy flavor that complements the creamy richness of the cream cheese.
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped): For a fragrant, herby note that pairs wonderfully with the olives.
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (finely chopped): Another herb to add depth and complexity to the spread.
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds smoothness and a rich flavor to the spread.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional): A touch of garlic can enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Adjust for seasoning to bring everything together.

These ingredients are simple but come together to create a vibrant and delicious spread that’s perfect for a variety of occasions.

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Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for your Cream Cheese & Olive Spread. Having everything ready before you begin will make the process more efficient and enjoyable.

Step 2: Blend the Cream Cheese

Place your room-temperature cream cheese into a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps remaining. You want a soft, creamy base that will easily incorporate the other ingredients.

Step 3: Add the Olives

Next, add the olives to the food processor. You can either leave them whole for a chunkier texture or chop them up beforehand for a smoother consistency. Pulse until the olives are mixed well into the cream cheese.

Step 4: Incorporate the Herbs and Seasonings

Add fresh rosemary and thyme, along with any additional seasonings such as garlic powder, black pepper, or a pinch of salt (taste as you go). Blend the mixture again until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the spread.

Step 5: Drizzle Olive Oil

For a smoother, more luxurious texture, drizzle in some extra virgin olive oil while blending. This will also enhance the flavor, making the spread even more indulgent.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

After blending, taste the spread and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more olives, herbs, or a little more olive oil depending on your preferences.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer the spread to a serving dish and garnish with a few whole olives and a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for an extra touch of elegance. Serve immediately with your favorite crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables.

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Notes

• Texture Variations: If you prefer a smoother spread, blend it for a longer period of time. For a chunkier texture, pulse the ingredients a few times instead of blending them until smooth.
• Herb Substitutions: While rosemary and thyme work wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Olive Options: Green olives, Kalamata olives, or even a mix of both can be used. If you prefer a milder taste, opt for green olives, while Kalamata olives will provide a stronger, more robust flavor.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overmixing the Cream Cheese: If you blend the cream cheese for too long, it could become too thin or runny. Be sure to stop blending once it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
2. Not Tasting as You Go: The saltiness of olives can vary, so it’s important to taste your spread as you prepare it. This way, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking and avoid making it too salty.
3. Using Cold Cream Cheese: If the cream cheese is too cold, it will be difficult to blend and may create lumps in your spread. Let it sit at room temperature for a while before mixing.
4. Forgetting to Add Olive Oil: Olive oil not only improves the texture of the spread but also enhances the flavor. Don’t skip this step unless you prefer a drier texture.

By keeping these points in mind, you’ll avoid common mistakes and ensure your Cream Cheese & Olive Spread turns out perfectly every time.

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What to Serve With Cream Cheese & Olive Spread?

This Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of foods. Here are some excellent options for what to serve it with:

1. Crackers

Crispy crackers provide the perfect crunchy contrast to the smooth spread, allowing the flavors to shine.

2. Toasted Bread

Try it on lightly toasted baguette slices or any hearty bread of your choice. The warm, crispy texture of the bread complements the creaminess of the spread.

3. Fresh Vegetables

Serve it with fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips for a healthy, refreshing snack.

4. Pita Chips

For an extra crunch and flavor, pita chips are a fantastic choice to scoop up the creamy spread.

5. Grilled Chicken or Fish

Use the spread as a topping for grilled meats, such as chicken or fish, for an added burst of flavor.

6. Roasted Potatoes

For a comforting dish, spread it over warm roasted potatoes or use it as a dip for potato wedges.

7. Olive Tapenade

Pair your spread with a tangy olive tapenade for a Mediterranean-inspired platter, adding variety and depth to your spread.

8. Salads

Top off a fresh green salad with a dollop of this creamy spread for an elevated texture and flavor boost.

This spread’s creamy and savory elements make it a perfect accompaniment to an array of different dishes, from light snacks to hearty meals.

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Storage Instructions

To store your Cream Cheese & Olive Spread, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days. The creamy texture may firm up a bit in the fridge, so be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving again. This will restore its smooth consistency, making it easier to spread.

For longer storage, you can freeze the spread in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Note that freezing may slightly change the texture, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 60-70 kcal
• Fat: 5-6g
• Saturated Fat: 2-3g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 90-110mg

These values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, especially the type of olives and cream cheese. The spread is relatively low in carbs and packed with healthy fats, making it a satisfying choice for those on low-carb or keto diets.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor. However, the creaminess and tanginess of cream cheese are what make this spread special.

2. Can I make this spread dairy-free?

Yes! You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make a vegan-friendly version of this spread. Make sure the olives and seasonings are also vegan to maintain the flavor.

3. Can I add more herbs to the spread?

Absolutely! You can experiment with adding other herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley to change up the flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely so they blend smoothly into the spread.

4. How can I make this spread spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, some finely chopped jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.

5. Can I use jarred olives instead of fresh?

Yes, jarred olives are perfectly fine to use. Just make sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that can alter the texture of your spread.

6. Is there a way to make this spread lighter?

You can lighten the spread by using low-fat or fat-free cream cheese, or by reducing the amount of olive oil. However, this may change the texture slightly, making it less creamy.

7. How can I make the spread ahead of time?

This spread can be made up to 1 day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will even deepen overnight, making it a great make-ahead option.

8. Can I serve this spread warm?

This spread is typically served chilled or at room temperature, but if you want to serve it warm, you can gently heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving. Be careful not to overheat it, as it may change the texture.

Conclusion

The Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is an incredibly versatile and easy-to-make dish that packs a punch of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a quick snack, this spread offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and savory notes. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a must-try that will become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether served with crackers, bread, or vegetables, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and don’t forget to make it your own with different variations!

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