If you’re searching for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip Recipe is what you should try!
This creamy, tangy, and savory dip is perfect for parties, game nights, or a cozy evening at home. It’s quick to whip up, versatile, and pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a flavorful snack, this recipe will become your go-to.
Let’s dive into why this dip is a must-try, how to make it, and all the tips and tricks to elevate your dip game!
Why You’ll Love This Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip
Bold Mediterranean Flavors: The briny green olives and salty feta create a perfect balance of tangy and creamy goodness.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s ideal for last-minute entertaining.
Versatile: Serve it with pita chips, fresh veggies, or spread it on sandwiches for a flavor boost.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with substitutions or variations to suit your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and store it for stress-free hosting.
Healthy and Fresh: Packed with wholesome ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
1 cup pitted green olives (preferably Castelvetrano or Kalamata for a robust flavor)
8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped (optional for extra freshness)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp dried oregano
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients: Drain and rinse the green olives to remove excess brine. Pat them dry and roughly chop.
Crumble the feta cheese if not already crumbled, and ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy blending.
Blend the Base: In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
Pulse until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds.
Add the Olives and Feta: Add the chopped green olives, crumbled feta, parsley, dill (if using), black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
Pulse a few times until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky for texture.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the dip and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more lemon juice for tanginess or a pinch of black pepper for extra depth.
Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the dip for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and garnish with extra parsley or a few olive slices for presentation.
Tips for the Perfect Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip
Choose Quality Olives: Opt for high-quality green olives like Castelvetrano for a buttery, mild flavor or Kalamata for a bolder, saltier kick.
Adjust Texture: For a smoother dip, blend longer. For a chunkier texture, pulse just a few times.
Balance the Salt: Feta and olives are naturally salty, so taste before adding extra seasoning.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh parsley and dill add brightness, but dried herbs can work in a pinch (use half the amount).
Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened cream cheese blends more easily, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or increase the red pepper flakes for heat.
Herb Swap: Try fresh basil or mint instead of dill for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Alternatives: Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier, tangier dip, or use ricotta for a milder flavor.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan feta, and replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative.
Add-Ins: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra depth.
Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Dippers: Pair with pita chips, crusty bread, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips.
Spreads: Use as a spread on sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for a Mediterranean twist.
Mezze Platter: Serve alongside hummus, tzatziki, and stuffed grape leaves for a stunning Mediterranean spread.
Party Appetizer: Place the dip in a decorative bowl with a variety of dippers for a crowd-pleasing party starter.
Salad Topping: Thin the dip with a little olive oil and drizzle over a Greek salad for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead, Storing, and Freezing Instructions
Make-Ahead
Prepare the dip up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir well before serving.
Storing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld over time.
Freezing
While not ideal due to the creamy texture, you can freeze the dip for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir well before serving. Note that the texture may be slightly grainy after freezing.
FAQs
Q. Can I use black olives instead of green olives?
Yes, black olives like Kalamata can be used, but they’ll give a slightly different flavor. Green olives provide a brighter, brinier taste.
Q. Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your dippers, like crackers or bread, are gluten-free if needed.
Q. Can I make this dip without a food processor?
Absolutely! Finely chop the olives and herbs, then mix everything by hand or with a hand mixer for a slightly chunkier texture.
Q. How can I make the dip less salty?
Rinse the olives thoroughly and use a low-sodium feta. You can also add more Greek yogurt to balance the flavors.
Q. Can I serve this dip warm?
Yes! Heat it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes in an oven-safe dish for a warm, melty version.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip is a game-changer for any gathering or snack time.
Its bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors, creamy texture, and versatility make it a standout recipe that’s sure to impress.
Whether you’re dipping, spreading, or incorporating it into a mezze platter, this dip delivers on taste and ease.
With make-ahead and storage options, it’s perfect for busy hosts or anyone craving a quick, delicious appetizer.
Try it today, and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection!
Read More:- Pomegranate Pistachio Feta Dip Recipe
Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted green olives chopped
- 8 oz feta cheese crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tsp fresh dill chopped (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Drain and chop green olives.
- In a food processor, blend cream cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
- Add olives, feta, parsley, dill, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until combined but slightly chunky.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Chill for 30 minutes (optional).
- Serve with pita chips, veggies, or bread, garnished with olive oil and parsley.
