Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

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This Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is a creamy, tangy, and savory delight that’s perfect for spreading on crackers, bread, or fresh veggies. Packed with briny olives and rich cream cheese, it’s an easy-to-make dip or topping that is sure to elevate any snack or party spread. Whether you’re preparing for a casual get-together or just looking for a flavorful addition to your lunch, this recipe is a must-try.

The Perfect Creamy and Savory Spread

Combining the rich creaminess of cream cheese with the vibrant saltiness of green and black olives, this spread offers a balanced burst of flavor in every bite. The pops of red pimentos bring a hint of sweetness and color, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

This versatile spread works wonderfully for many occasions, whether served as an appetizer, a sandwich filling, or a quick snack. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing recipe ready in no time.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

Creating this creamy and flavorful spread requires just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cream Cheese – Use softened cream cheese for a smooth and creamy base. Full-fat cream cheese works best for a rich flavor, but you can use light cream cheese if you prefer.
• Green Olives – Sliced green olives add a tangy, briny flavor that complements the creaminess perfectly.
• Black Olives – Chopped black olives bring a milder, earthy taste to balance the sharper green olives.
• Pimentos – These sweet, roasted red peppers provide a pop of color and subtle sweetness to the spread.
• Garlic Powder – A pinch of garlic powder enhances the savory flavors without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper – A small amount of salt and freshly cracked black pepper rounds out the seasoning for a balanced taste.

How to Make Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

This spread comes together quickly and easily, making it a perfect last-minute recipe for any occasion. Follow these steps for a flawless result:

Step 1:
Begin by softening the cream cheese. Remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This will make it easier to mix and ensure a smooth consistency.

Step 2:
Prepare the olives. Slice the green olives and chop the black olives into small, uniform pieces. Drain any excess liquid from the olives and pimentos to avoid a watery spread.

Step 3:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, green olives, black olives, and pimentos. Add a pinch of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4:
Using a spatula or hand mixer, blend the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. Make sure the olives and pimentos are distributed throughout the spread for bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 5:
Transfer the spread to a serving dish or an airtight container if preparing in advance. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6:
Serve your Cream Cheese & Olive Spread with crackers, baguette slices, fresh vegetables, or as a sandwich spread. Enjoy!

How to Store Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

This Cream Cheese & Olive Spread is not only easy to prepare but also stores well, making it a convenient recipe to prepare ahead of time or save for later use. Here are the best ways to store it:

• Refrigerator: Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, give it a quick stir and allow it to come to room temperature for easier spreading.
• Freezer: While freezing is not ideal due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the spread for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese & Olive Spread

To ensure your spread is absolutely delicious, keep these tips in mind:

• Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
• Drain the Olives and Pimentos: Excess liquid from the olives or pimentos can make the spread watery, so be sure to drain them well before adding.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Depending on the saltiness of your olives, you may need to adjust the amount of added salt. Taste as you go!
• Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to add extras like chopped fresh herbs (parsley or dill), a pinch of smoked paprika, or even a handful of chopped nuts for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile spread is delicious in so many ways. Try these serving ideas for your next snack or gathering:

• Spread on crackers or toast for a simple appetizer.
• Use as a filling for tea sandwiches or wraps.
• Serve as a dip alongside fresh veggies like celery, carrots, and bell peppers.
• Add to bagels or sandwiches for a flavorful twist.
• Pair with a charcuterie board for a unique and savory addition.

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