Creamy Olive & Herb Spread

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Creamy Olive & Herb Spread

A rich, creamy, and savory appetizer that’s perfect for parties, snack boards, or a quick afternoon treat. Tangy green olives, creamy cheese, Parmesan, and fresh herbs come together in minutes for a delicious spread that’s wonderful on toasted bread, crackers, or crisp vegetables.

🛒 Ingredients

🧀 For the Spread

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup pitted green olives, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

🌿 For Garnish

  • Whole green olives
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • A drizzle of olive oil

🥖 For Serving

  • Toasted baguette slices
  • Crackers
  • Pita chips
  • Fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients

➡️ Finely chop the green olives and fresh parsley.
➡️ Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes until soft.

2️⃣ Make the Creamy Base

➡️ Add the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise to a medium mixing bowl.
➡️ Stir until completely smooth and creamy.

3️⃣ Add the Flavor

➡️ Mix in:

  • Chopped olives
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Olive oil
  • Italian seasoning
  • Fresh parsley
  • Red pepper flakes (if using)

➡️ Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

4️⃣ Mix Well

➡️ Stir until everything is evenly combined.
➡️ For an extra silky texture, pulse the mixture a few times in a food processor.

5️⃣ Chill

➡️ Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
➡️ Refrigerate for 30 minutes so the flavors blend together.

6️⃣ Serve

➡️ Spoon the spread into a serving bowl.
➡️ Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
➡️ Garnish with chopped parsley and whole green olives.
➡️ Serve with toasted baguette slices, crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetables.

💡 Tips

  • ✅ Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
  • ✅ Chop the olives finely so every bite has balanced flavor.
  • ✅ Make it a day ahead—the flavor becomes even better after chilling overnight.
  • ✅ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

❓Q&A

Q: Can I use black olives instead?
Yes! Black olives provide a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop even more.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Freezing isn’t recommended, as cream cheese may become grainy after thawing.

🍽️ Servings

Makes: About 2 cups (8–10 servings)

🥗 Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~170
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Sodium: ~290mg

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