If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful spread that’s both creamy and savory, this Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is about to become your new best friend! The richness of the cream cheese paired with the briny goodness of olives creates a match made in snack heaven. Trust me, you’re going to love this!

This recipe is so easy to whip up, yet it’s full of flavor. You’ll have it ready in minutes and it’s perfect for everything from spreading on crackers to serving as a dip at your next party. This one’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

This spread is more than just the sum of its parts—it’s a little bit tangy, a little bit salty, and totally creamy. Whether you’re hosting a get-together, prepping a quick snack, or just indulging on your own, this spread fits the bill. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for a snack with crackers, or even as a topping for toasted baguette slices. It’s easy to mix and match with whatever you’ve got.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients come together to create an irresistible spread. No need to break the bank for a tasty treat!

Quick and Easy: This recipe is almost effortless to make. If you’re a beginner or just in a rush, this spread is perfect for you.

Customizable: You can adjust the flavor by adding more herbs or different kinds of olives to suit your personal taste. Want to spice things up? A pinch of red pepper flakes would do the trick!

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family snack or a party dip, this spread is sure to be a hit. Everyone loves the creamy texture and burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering spread:

Cream Cheese: The rich, creamy base of this spread. It provides the perfect texture and balance for the tangy olives.
Green Olives: Briny and tangy, green olives add a salty kick that pairs wonderfully with the cream cheese.
Black Olives: Slightly milder than green olives, black olives add a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to the spread.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a subtle punch of flavor without overpowering the olives.
Herbs (optional): Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme for an extra layer of freshness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into making this creamy, savory spread:

1. Prepare the Olives

Start by pitting and chopping both the green and black olives into small pieces. The size is up to you—if you prefer a chunkier spread, keep the pieces bigger, or chop them finely for a smoother texture.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped olives, cream cheese, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The cream cheese should be soft and easy to mix, so it blends perfectly with the olives.

3. Add the Herbs

If you’re using fresh herbs, chop them finely and fold them into the mixture. Fresh herbs will elevate the spread, adding a burst of flavor and a pop of color.

4. Chill

Cover the spread and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the spread even more delicious.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, serve this spread with crackers, sliced veggies, or toasted bread. It’s as simple as that! You’ve got a winning dish that everyone will love.

How to Serve Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

With Crackers or Chips: A classic pairing, the creamy spread and crunchy crackers are a perfect match.
On Toasted Baguette: Spread a little bit of this on toasted baguette slices for an easy appetizer.
With Veggies: Perfect with cucumber slices, celery, or bell peppers for a healthy snack.
As a Sandwich Spread: Add it to sandwiches for an extra creamy, tangy boost.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: You can prepare this spread up to a day in advance. It actually gets better as the flavors meld together over time.
Spice It Up: Add a few red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or toss in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Storage Tips: Store leftover spread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, so it’s great to have on hand!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use any type of olives for this spread?
A1: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of olives, whether they’re Kalamata, green, or a mix. The brininess of the olives is key.

Q2: Can I make this spread ahead of time?
A2: Yes! It’s actually best when made ahead. Just refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store the spread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Refrain from freezing it, as the texture may change.

Q4: Can I add more garlic?
A4: Of course! If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

Q5: Is this spread suitable for vegetarians?
A5: Yes, this spread is vegetarian-friendly, perfect for all your plant-based guests.

Q6: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A6: Yes! Feel free to swap for low-fat cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter version.

Q7: Can I add nuts to the spread?
A7: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or almonds would add a nice crunch to the spread.

Q8: What can I serve this with besides crackers?
A8: Try serving it with fresh veggies, toasted pita chips, or on a sandwich.

Q9: Can I use jarred minced garlic instead of fresh?
A9: Sure! Just use about 1 teaspoon of jarred minced garlic instead of one clove of fresh garlic.

Q10: Can I freeze the spread?
A10: We recommend storing it in the fridge, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just keep in mind the texture might change slightly when thawed.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a quick and creamy Cream Cheese & Olive Spread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a simple snack, this recipe will have you covered. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a regular in your kitchen. Happy snacking!