Cream Cheese And Olive Salad
Cream Cheese And Olive Salad offers a creamy, tangy flavor with chopped olives and pimento, ideal for elegant appetizers or light snacks served chilled on greens.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush the soft cream cheese with a fork.
- Stir in the cream, salt, paprika, chopped olives, and pimento until well combined.
- Pack the mixture into a small straight-sided glass or mold.
- Chill until the mixture is firm.
- Cut into slices and serve on watercress or lettuce with mayonnaise.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the olives with capers or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste, similar to how you might customize a New York Waldorf Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cream Cheese and Olive Salad on a bed of fresh watercress or crisp lettuce. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of mayonnaise for added creaminess. You can also enjoy it alongside crackers or as a spread in sandwiches, making it a great addition to any picnic or lunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently bring it to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture. For best results, serve cold, as this salad is intended to be refreshing and firm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese And Olive Salad contains roughly 437 calories, with 10g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2193mg per serving (95% 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 use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different. It might not be as creamy, so consider adding a bit more cream to achieve the desired consistency. This recipe is quite forgiving, allowing for adjustments based on your dietary preferences.
What types of olives work best in this salad?
Ripe olives, green olives, or even a mix can enhance the flavor of this salad. Stuffed olives can add an extra burst of taste. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite combination, keeping in mind that the saltiness of the olives will affect the overall flavor.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just pack it tightly in its mold and refrigerate. It actually benefits from sitting, as the flavors meld together. Just remember to slice and serve it fresh right before your meal for the best presentation.
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).