Olive Spread
A rich, savory olive spread with crunchy pecans and creamy cheese, perfect for spreading on crackers or bread. Its balanced flavors of olives, mayonnaise, and pecans make it a versatile appetizer or snack that pairs well with wine or fresh vegetables, appealing to those who enjoy bold, textured dips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the cream cheese with a fork until smooth.
- Add the mayonnaise and stir until well combined and smooth.
- Add the chopped olives with pimientos, finely chopped pecans, olive juice, and a dash of pepper.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Refrigerate the spread for at least 12 hours to allow flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider blending the cream cheese and mayonnaise together in a food processor. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans. Adjust the amount of olives based on your preference for saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the olive spread on a platter alongside crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Fruit Salad(Good For Diabetics) for a balanced appetizer selection. Consider serving it alongside a charcuterie board or at a brunch gathering for a delightful addition.
Storage & Reheating
Store the olive spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain its freshness, avoid introducing any utensils that may contain food particles. There's no need to reheat this spread, as it is best served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olive Spread contains roughly 365 calories, with 3g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% 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 spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it's recommended to prepare the spread at least 12 hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.
What type of olives should I use?
Green olives with pimientos are a classic choice, but you can experiment with black olives or Kalamata olives for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are pitted and chopped for easy mixing.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and use vegan mayonnaise. This will keep the texture creamy and delicious while accommodating 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).