Cilantro Dip
A vibrant and flavorful cilantro dip combining black olives, green chilies, tomatoes, and cheese, perfect for parties and pairs well with tortilla chips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Pour the prepared Italian dressing over the mixture and stir well.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of cumin to the dip. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute half of the Jack cheese with cream cheese. Fresh herbs like parsley can be used in place of cilantro for a different flavor profile. Be sure to adjust salt levels according to your preference as the olives and dressing can be quite salty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cilantro Dip chilled with tortilla chips for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Chili Rellenos or as part of a spread alongside Five Layer Dip. Add some fresh veggies like bell peppers or cucumber on the side for a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the freshness of the flavors, it's best not to freeze this dip, as the texture may change. If you need to serve it warm, gently heat it in a microwave while stirring to keep the consistency smooth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cilantro Dip contains roughly 258 calories, with 15g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (337% of the Daily Value), iron (122% of the Daily Value), and calcium (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 689mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, making this dip a day in advance is actually recommended! Refrigerating it overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to stir it well before serving to redistribute the ingredients.
What can I use instead of Jack cheese?
If Jack cheese isn't available, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a sharper flavor. Each cheese will bring its own unique taste to the dip, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cilantro Dip is entirely vegetarian as it contains no meat products. It's a great option for parties and gatherings, allowing vegetarians to enjoy a flavorful snack. Just double-check the dressing ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).