Kalamata Olive Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Kalamata Olive Dip is a flavorful and creamy appetizer that’s perfect for parties or a simple snack. Combining tangy olives with smooth cream cheese creates a rich, savory spread that pairs wonderfully with pita chips or crackers.

Ingredients

• 250 grams (8.8 oz) kalamata olives, pitted and drained, reserving some brine (do not rinse)
• 250 grams (8.8 oz) cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive brine
• 1 tablespoon dried onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pita chips or crackers, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add the pitted kalamata olives to the bowl of a food processor and pulse for about 5 seconds to roughly chop them. Remove the lid and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
2. Step 2: Add the cream cheese, garlic powder, dried onion, and olive brine to the food processor. Pulse again for 5 seconds, scrape down the bowl, and pulse one more time until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Step 3: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl using a spatula. Serve immediately with pita chips or crackers around the bowl for spreading.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, soften the cream cheese to room temperature before blending.
• Try adding a splash of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
• Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh twist.
• If you prefer a smoother dip, blend for longer but be careful not to make it too runny.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature for easier spreading. Stir well if any separation occurs. This dip is best enjoyed fresh but can be lightly refreshed with a quick stir.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip without a food processor?

Yes, you can finely chop the olives by hand and then mix them thoroughly with softened cream cheese, garlic powder, dried onion, and olive brine using a bowl and spoon or a hand mixer.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a slightly different texture and flavor, though the dip will be less firm and slightly lighter in taste.

Kalamata Olive Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 87 reviews

This creamy Kalamata Olive Dip offers a flavorful and tangy spread that’s perfect for entertaining or snacking. Made with pitted Kalamata olives, cream cheese, and a touch of olive brine, it’s a quick and easy Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that pairs perfectly with pita chips or crackers.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6-8 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dip

• 250 grams (8.8 oz) Kalamata olives, pitted and drained (reserve some brine, do not rinse)
• 250 grams (8.8 oz) cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive brine
• 1 tablespoon dried onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

To Serve

• Pita chips or crackers

Instructions

1. Roughly Chop Olives: Add the pitted Kalamata olives to the bowl of a food processor and blitz for about 5 seconds to roughly chop them. Remove the lid and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure even chopping.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the cream cheese, garlic powder, dried onion, and olive brine to the chopped olives. Blitz the mixture for another 5 seconds, scrape down the sides again, and give it a final blitz to fully combine all ingredients into a creamy dip.
3. Serve: Transfer the Kalamata olive dip into a serving bowl using a spatula. Provide a cheese knife for spreading and arrange pita chips or crackers around the dip for easy serving.

Notes

• Note 1: Keep some olive brine from the Kalamata olives to add flavor and help with the dip’s texture.
• Note 2: Cream cheese lends creaminess; use full-fat for best flavor or reduced-fat if preferred.
• Note 3: Olive brine enhances the briny depth without overpowering the dip.
• Note 4: Dried onion adds a mild savory note without the need for fresh chopping.
• Store leftover dip covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for freshness.
• For added texture, you can stir in chopped olives or herbs after blending.

Keywords: Kalamata olive dip, Mediterranean dip, creamy olive spread, appetizer, easy dip recipe, party dip