This 4-Ingredient Olive Dip is a quick and easy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining the briny flavors of green olives with creamy, tangy ingredients, this dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in minutes. Serve it with pita chips or Ritz crackers for a delicious and effortless snack that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 (9 oz.) jar green olives, with or without pimentos, roughly chopped
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pita chips, for serving
- Ritz crackers, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
- Chop Olives: Drain the green olives and roughly chop them. If using olives with pimentos, you can leave the pimentos in or remove them based on your preference.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. If needed, leave it out of the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Dip
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped green olives, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and garlic powder.
- Mix Well: Use a spatula or an electric mixer to blend the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. Ensure the olives are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
- Chill the Dip: For best flavor, cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve with pita chips and Ritz crackers.
Cook’s Tips:
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is properly softened for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Texture Preference: Adjust the chopping size of the olives based on your texture preference. For a chunkier dip, leave the olives more roughly chopped; for a smoother dip, chop them more finely.
- Serving Temperature: The dip can be served immediately, but chilling it for a bit enhances the flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Olive Dip: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Olive Dip: Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an herby flavor.
- Cheesy Olive Dip: Mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use black olives instead of green olives? A: Yes, you can substitute black olives for green olives, but the flavor will be slightly different. Green olives have a sharper, brinier taste compared to the milder flavor of black olives.
Q: How long can I store this dip? A: The dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time? A: Yes, this dip can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with this dip besides pita chips and Ritz crackers? A: This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers, such as vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers), pretzels, or crusty bread slices.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to this dip? A: Absolutely! You can customize this dip by adding ingredients like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or even a bit of lemon zest for extra flavor.
This 4-Ingredient Olive Dip is a simple yet flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a creamy, tangy, and briny dip that pairs wonderfully with pita chips, Ritz crackers, or your favorite dippers. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this easy recipe at your next party or snack time!
Enjoy the briny and creamy flavors of this easy-to-make 4-Ingredient Olive Dip, perfect for any occasion!
