Greek Olive Spread
A vibrant Greek olive spread combining black and green olives with herbs and olive oil, perfect as a dip, spread, or accompaniment for a Mediterranean-inspired snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a blender.
- Blend until a smooth paste forms, scraping down the sides often.
- Refrigerate until needed.
- Serve as a spread or dip, or mix with sour cream or cream cheese for added flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, you can add a splash of lemon juice or a clove of garlic when blending. If you want a milder flavor, consider using Castelvetrano olives instead of black olives. You can also customize the herbs; try adding fresh basil or parsley for a different twist. This olive spread is versatile and can be incorporated into various Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Greek olive spread with warm pita bread or alongside fresh vegetables for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with cold dishes like Cold Tomato-Cucumber Soup, making it a great appetizer. For a hearty snack, mix it with cream cheese for a delicious spread on sandwiches or crackers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover olive spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep it fresh, make sure the surface is covered with a thin layer of olive oil. This spread is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat; simply take it out of the fridge before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Olive Spread contains roughly 260 calories, with 8g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (180% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), and calcium (108% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 38g 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 different types of olives for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for black and green olives, feel free to experiment with other varieties like kalamata or even stuffed olives. Just be mindful of the overall saltiness, as different olives have varying levels of brine.
How can I make this olive spread spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper before blending. You can also incorporate a few slices of pickled jalapeños for a tangy, spicy kick that complements the olives well.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Greek olive spread is entirely vegan! It contains no animal products, making it a perfect choice for those following a vegan lifestyle. You can enjoy it as a dip or spread without any concerns about dietary restrictions.
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).