Green Olive Dip Recipe

As I whipped up this creamy yet tangy green olive dip, I couldn’t help but marvel at how simple ingredients transform into such an addictive treat—it’s like giving your taste buds a VIP invitation to flavor town!

I love how this dip of creamy green olives combines the tang of sour cream and the richness of cream cheese to create a truly savory delight. With a hint of garlic and a touch of lemon juice, it offers a burst of Mediterranean flavor.

The addition of good olive oil and fresh parsley not only enhances the dip’s flavor but also its nutritional profile, bringing a fresh touch to every bite.

Ingredients

• Green Olives: Rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, add a savory tang.
• Cream Cheese: Provides creaminess and a mild, tangy flavor.
• Sour Cream: Adds richness and a slight tang, boosting flavor depth.
• Garlic: Enhances flavor with its aromatic and spicy kick.
• Lemon Juice: Brings freshness and a citrusy brightness.
• Olive Oil: Adds smoothness and a hint of fruitiness.
• Parsley: Offers a pop of color and herbaceous freshness.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup pitted green olives, drained
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

How to Make this

1. A food processor is where you combine the pitted green olives, cream cheese, sour cream, and minced garlic.

2. Chop the olives very finely and pulse them, alongside the cream cheese and sour cream, until they are well blended.

3. Combine the lemon juice and olive oil with the mixture in the food processor.

4. Black pepper should be used for seasoning.

5. Reprocess the mix until it is smooth and creamy.

6. Put the dip into a dish for serving.

7. By hand, stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This keeps its vibrant green color.

8. Sample the dip and change the seasoning if needed.

9. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, ensuring the container is covered, allowing the flavors to meld.

10. Chill and serve with vegetable sticks, bread, or crackers.

Equipment Needed

1. Food processor
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Mixing spoon
7. Serving dish
8. Plastic wrap or container lid (for covering)
9. Refrigerator

FAQ

• Can I use black olives instead of green olives?Indeed, substituting black olives for another ingredient will yield a different flavor profile, and the dip will obviously taste and look different (and probably better!) without them.
• Can I make this dip ahead of time?It is definitely possible to prepare the dip one day prior to your event. After making it, just place it in the fridge until it’s time to serve. Before serving, it is best to give the dip a good stir to reconstitute it after it’s been chillin’ in the fridge.
• How long will the dip last in the fridge?The dip will stay good for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container.
• Is there a substitute for cream cheese?Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can be used for a lighter or vegan option.
• Can I freeze the dip?Not recommended is freezing, as it may change the dip’s texture, especially because of the dairy ingredients.
• What can I serve with this dip?Accompany it with crackers, vegetable sticks, pita bread, or use it as a sandwich spread.
• Can I add other herbs to enhance the flavor?Of course, you can also add herbs like dill or thyme for an extra punch of flavor.

Green Olive Dip Recipe Substitutions and Variations

4 oz cream cheese, softened: Replace with 4 oz Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
1/2 cup sour cream. You can substitute this with either of these options: 1/2 cup plain yogurt, or 1/2 cup crème fraîche. These options work especially well in both sweet and savory dishes. Yogurt and crème fraîche are similar to sour cream.
One clove of garlic, minced: If you don’t have this on hand, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Substitute with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Substitute with 1 tablespoon oil from avocados or canola oil.

Pro Tips

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients Opt for high-quality olives and fresh garlic for the best flavor. Using fresh parsley instead of dried will enhance the dish’s vibrancy and flavor.

2. Room Temperature Cream Cheese Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before combining it in the food processor. This ensures a smooth, lump-free dip.

3. Adjust Consistency If you prefer a thinner dip, gradually add more olive oil or a splash of water until you reach the desired consistency. For a thicker dip, reduce the amount of sour cream slightly.

4. Flavor Enhancements Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

5. Presentation Touch Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top of the dip and add a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or lemon zest for a fresh, appealing finish.