Smoky Cheese-Olive Spread
A creamy, smoky cheese spread with the savory tang of green olives, perfect for entertaining or snacking. Its smooth texture and bold flavor make it an ideal appetizer served with assorted crackers, appealing to cheese lovers and those seeking a flavorful, easy-to-make dip for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 2-cup mold or bowl with clear plastic wrap or foil.
- Beat the cream cheese and process cheese food together until well blended.
- Stir in the sliced green olives.
- Turn the mixture into the prepared mold.
- Chill for 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure both cream cheese and process cheese food are at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the process cheese with a cheddar or gouda for a different flavor, though it won't have the smoky essence. For added depth, consider mixing in a teaspoon of smoked paprika. This spread is versatile, working well as a topping for vegetable sticks or spread on a Pepper Roll.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Smoky Cheese-Olive Spread with an assortment of crackers for a delightful appetizer. It pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetable sticks, such as carrots or celery, for a healthier option. For a more elaborate spread, consider adding some sliced cured meats or cheeses, or browse more vegetarian recipes to complement the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It's best served chilled, so there's no need to reheat; simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly, enhancing the spreadability.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoky Cheese-Olive Spread contains roughly 295 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 613mg per serving (27% 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! This spread can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any absorption of odors from the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of pimiento-stuffed olives?
If you can't find pimiento-stuffed olives, green olives with garlic or even Kalamata olives can work well. Just remember that the flavor will change slightly, so choose an option that complements your taste preference.
How can I make this spread vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and use a vegan cheese alternative in place of the process cheese food. Ensure that all other ingredients are vegan-friendly to maintain the recipe's integrity.
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).