Cream Cheese Olive Spread
A creamy, savory spread with olives and pecans, perfect for appetizers or snacks, offering a delightful combination of tangy, nutty, and cheesy flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Refrigerate the spread until chilled and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version, or use walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the taste, and for a twist, consider incorporating herbs like dill or chives. This spread is perfect for gatherings or as a snack, so make it in advance for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cream Cheese Olive Spread with an assortment of crackers, vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It's also great as a sandwich spread or a dip for chips. For a complete spread, consider pairing with a cheese platter or alongside other vegetarian recipes like stuffed mushrooms or fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time. If you want to enjoy it warm, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, but it’s best served chilled. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Olive Spread contains roughly 720 calories, with 6g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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, low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute for regular cream cheese. It will still provide a creamy texture, but the flavor may be slightly less rich. Make sure to mix it well to ensure a smooth consistency.
What types of olives work best in this spread?
Salad olives are great for this recipe, but you can also use green olives or black olives depending on your taste preference. Just make sure they are pitted and sliced for easy mixing.
Is there a way to make this spread vegan?
To make a vegan version of this spread, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and vegan mayonnaise. This maintains the creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
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).