There’s something about a spread that’s creamy, savory, and just a little bit tangy that makes it totally irresistible, right? Well, say hello to the Cream Cheese & Olive Spread! This simple yet flavorful recipe is a game-changer for your appetizer lineup, snack-time cravings, or any occasion where you need a deliciously easy bite. It’s packed with that smooth cream cheese goodness and the briny, satisfying punch of olives. Trust me, it’s one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to—and you might even get requests for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

This spread is everything you could want in a savory snack. It’s smooth, tangy, and just the right amount of savory, making it perfect for almost any occasion. Here’s why it’s going to be your new go-to:

Versatile: This spread is great for everything from a quick snack to a party appetizer. Spread it on crackers, toast, or use it as a dip. It’s perfect for when you need something tasty but don’t want to spend a ton of time in the kitchen.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients—cream cheese and olives—come together to create a dish that tastes far more luxurious than it costs. You probably already have most of what you need sitting in your fridge or pantry.

Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just minutes. There’s no cooking involved, just a little mixing, and you’re done! Perfect for when you need to get something on the table fast but still want to impress.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s for kids or adults, this spread has a little something for everyone. The cream cheese gives it a nice creamy base, while the olives add the perfect salty, briny contrast that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance.

Ingredients

The magic of this spread lies in its simplicity. Here’s everything you need to bring this creamy, zesty delight to life:

Cream Cheese: The creamy base that makes everything come together beautifully. It’s smooth, soft, and the perfect canvas for the bold, briny olives.

Olives (Green or Black): These little bites of saltiness are the flavor stars here. Choose your favorite variety—or even mix them up. You can also chop them into smaller pieces for a more spreadable texture.

Garlic Powder: A pinch of garlic powder gives the spread that extra depth of flavor without being overpowering. It’s like a secret ingredient that makes everything come alive.

Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh, herby note that brightens up the whole spread. Plus, it looks gorgeous!

Lemon Juice: Just a squeeze of lemon juice brings everything together, cutting through the creaminess and adding a nice tang.

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into making this easy, creamy goodness:

Prep Your Olives: Start by chopping your olives into small pieces. If you want a smoother texture, chop them finely; for more texture, keep them chunkier. Just make sure to remove any pits if you’re using whole olives.

Mix It Up: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese with the chopped olives. Add in the garlic powder, lemon juice, and a bit of fresh parsley.

Blend Until Smooth: Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend everything together until it’s well combined. Taste it and adjust seasoning as you like. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a bit of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little kick!

Chill It (Optional): For the best flavor, let your spread sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour. This helps all the flavors meld together and makes it even more delicious.

Serve and Enjoy: Spread it on your favorite crackers, serve it with some crisp veggies, or pile it on top of toasted bread. It’s so versatile, the sky’s the limit!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 150

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

There are so many ways to serve and enjoy this spread! Here are a few ideas to elevate your snack game:

Crackers or Bread: Spread it on your favorite crackers or a warm, crusty baguette. It’s the perfect pairing for your next charcuterie board.

Fresh Veggies: Serve alongside carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. The creaminess of the spread and the crunch of the veggies are a match made in heaven!

On Toast: A quick, indulgent breakfast or snack—toast a slice of your favorite bread, spread on the cream cheese & olive goodness, and maybe add a soft-boiled egg on top for some extra protein.

As a Dip: Use it as a dip for pita chips or tortilla chips. It’s got that creamy, salty flavor that makes it a hit at any gathering.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: You can make this spread ahead of time and store it in the fridge. The flavors get even better as they sit and meld together!
Make it Spicy: Add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes if you like things spicy. It gives a fun kick to the creamy spread.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re going dairy-free, feel free to use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. It works just as well.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Double It Up: This recipe is so simple to scale up. If you’re having a crowd over, double or triple the batch!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use different types of olives?
A1: Yes! Whether you prefer green olives, black olives, or a mix of both, you can tailor it to your taste. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the spread, but it’ll be delicious no matter what.

Q2: Can I make this spread ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! It’s a great make-ahead recipe. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will only get better!

Q3: How long can I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving to bring back that creamy consistency.

Q4: Can I freeze this spread?
A4: Freezing isn’t recommended for this spread as the cream cheese can change texture once thawed. But it’s so quick to make, you probably won’t have any leftovers anyway!

Q5: How can I make this spread spicier?
A5: You can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a bit of hot sauce to turn up the heat. Adjust to your personal taste.

Q6: Can I substitute the parsley for another herb?
A6: Yes! If parsley isn’t your thing, try using chives, dill, or even basil. Each will bring its own flavor twist to the spread.

Q7: What can I serve this with for a more substantial meal?
A7: Serve it with some hearty sides like roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or even scrambled eggs for a tasty brunch!

Q8: Can I make this spread without garlic?
A8: Definitely! If you prefer a garlic-free version, just leave it out. The olives and cream cheese will still shine without it.

Q9: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A9: Yes, feel free to swap for low-fat cream cheese if you’re watching your calories. It will still be creamy and delicious!

Q10: Can I make this spread with other kinds of cheese?
A10: You could experiment with adding other cheeses, like goat cheese or feta, for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is one of those recipes that will become a regular in your kitchen, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a party, indulging in a snack, or looking for a versatile spread to keep in the fridge, this one checks all the boxes. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. So go ahead, give it a try—and get ready to wow your taste buds!