Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this 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.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this dip lies in its simple, vibrant ingredients . Here’s what you’ll need:
- 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 Toppings:
- Chopped olives (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes
- Lemon zest
- Crumbled feta cheese
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. For 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 to reach your desired creaminess.
Step 3: Season to Taste
- Add salt and pepper, then pulse again. Taste and adjust lemon juice or herbs if needed.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Transfer the dip to a bowl. Garnish with extra olives, herbs, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve immediately with pita chips, veggies, or crackers—or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors deepen.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of this dip lies in its balance of salty, creamy, and bright flavors . The olives provide a punch of brininess, while the cream cheese softens and mellows the intensity. Lemon juice adds freshness, and garlic/herbs elevate it to something crave-worthy. It’s a dip that’s simple yet sophisticated—perfect for any occasion.
