Ingredients
- Feta cheese, block or crumbled (8 ounces)
- Pitted green olives (such as Castelvetrano or Manzanilla) (1 cup)
- Cream cheese, softened (4 ounces)
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
- Garlic (1 small clove)
- Fresh dill, chopped (1 tablespoon)
- Black pepper, freshly ground (1/4 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the softened cream cheese and feta cheese in the bowl of a food processor. Process on medium speed until the mixture is well combined and relatively smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
- Step 2: Add the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic clove, and black pepper to the cheese mixture. Process again for 30 seconds until the dip is light and creamy.
- Step 3: Add the green olives and the chopped fresh dill. Pulse the mixture 5 to 7 times until the olives are coarsely chopped and thoroughly incorporated into the feta spread, ensuring not to over-process into a paste.
- Step 4: Taste the dip and adjust seasoning if needed (salt is usually unnecessary due to the feta and olives). Transfer the dip to a serving bowl or airtight container.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the "Olive Lovers’ Dream Dip" for at least 1 hour before serving; chilling allows the spread to firm up and the flavors to fully meld. Serve cold with crusty bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; stir well before serving again, as a slight separation of oil may occur when chilled.
- This creamy spread is designed to be served cold, but if it is too firm directly from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes for optimal spreading consistency.
- For the brightest flavor without bitterness, use a Microplane to zest the small clove of garlic directly into the food processor during Step 2; this ensures perfect incorporation and prevents unwanted raw chunks.
- Elevate your presentation by serving this dip in a shallow bowl and drizzling the top with a final tablespoon of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a delicate sprinkle of chopped dill.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American