Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about this Olive & Herb Creamy Dip. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- 5-Minute Prep: No cooking or baking—just blend and serve!
- Bold Flavor: Briny olives meet creamy, herby goodness for a taste that’s irresistible.
- Versatile: Perfect for veggies, chips, sandwiches, or even as a pizza topping.
- Customizable: Adjust herbs, spice, or add-ins to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: Mild enough for kids but sophisticated enough for adults.
- Great for Gatherings: A guaranteed hit at parties, potlucks, or casual snacking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this dip lies in its simple, vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives (or a mix of green and black olives)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried herbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for blending and drizzling)
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon capers (for extra briny depth)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky kick)
- 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (for a touch of sweetness)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped olives (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
- Lemon zest (for an extra citrusy note)
- Crumbled feta cheese (for a Mediterranean twist)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to whip up this creamy, zesty dip? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Blend the Base
- In a food processor, combine the olives, cream cheese, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
- Pulse until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, leave some olive pieces intact.
Step 2: Adjust Consistency
- If the dip is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil or a splash of water until you reach your desired creaminess.
- For a lighter consistency, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
Step 3: Season to Taste
- Add salt and pepper, then pulse again.
- Taste and adjust lemon juice, herbs, or spices as needed.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with extra olives, herbs, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve immediately with pita chips, fresh veggies, crackers, or warm crusty bread.
- For deeper flavors, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of this dip lies in its balance of salty, creamy, and bright flavors:
β The olives provide a punch of brininess.
β The cream cheese (or Greek yogurt) softens and mellows the intensity.
β Lemon juice adds freshness.
β Garlic and herbs elevate it to something crave-worthy.
It’s a dip that’s simple yet sophisticated—perfect for any occasion!
Creative Ways to Use This Dip
- As a Spread: Smear onto sandwiches, wraps, or bagels.
- As a Topping: Dollop onto grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or pasta.
- With Eggs: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or omelets for a Mediterranean twist.
- As a Stuffing: Use as a filling for mini bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The dip thickens when chilled—stir in a little olive oil or water to loosen before serving.
- Make ahead for parties! The flavors get even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Now, get ready to dunk, spread, and savor every bite of this creamy olive dip! π«β¨