Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip | 5-Min Bold Favorite!

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There’s something undeniably magnetic about the salty tang of feta paired with the briny depth of green olives. This green olive and feta cheese dip isn’t just a dip — it’s a conversation starter. I first made it on a whim for a small gathering, and to my surprise, it vanished before the main course even hit the table. Ever since, it’s become my secret weapon for quick, flavorful entertaining.

This recipe brings together creamy feta, zesty olives, garlic, lemon, and a hint of heat, making it ideal for everything from casual snacks to elegant platters. It’s easy, fast, and loaded with Mediterranean charm.

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 The Story & Intro 

A Personal Dip Discovery

Years ago, while prepping for a backyard wine night with friends, I opened the fridge and saw a lonely block of feta, a jar of green olives, and half a lemon. Inspired by simplicity, I blitzed them together. What I didn’t expect was magic in a bowl.

That green olive and feta cheese dip became a staple — especially when paired with warm pita or crisp veggies. It reminded me of our trip to Santorini, where briny, bold flavors reigned supreme. It felt like summer in every bite.

Since then, I’ve played with textures, spice, and even swapped in roasted garlic a few times — but the original combo? Always a hit.

Why This Recipe Is Special

What sets this recipe apart isn’t just the ingredients. It’s the balance. Feta brings that creamy, crumbly body while green olives add an irresistible tang. When blended with a little olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes, it transforms into something incredibly lush and layered.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it as a dip, smear it on crostini, or tuck it into wraps like these Cucumber Cottage Cheese Wraps for a Mediterranean twist. It’s a natural partner to bold, colorful dishes like this Avocado Feta Toast.

What’s more? It’s ready in 10 minutes — no baking, no fuss.

Whether you’re prepping a mezze platter or just need something satisfying to dunk crackers into while dinner simmers, this dip will never let you down.

Ingredients & Preparation 

Ingredient Breakdown

This green olive and feta cheese dip needs just a handful of pantry staples:

Pro tip: Always taste your feta before salting — it’s usually salty enough.

Tools & Substitutions

Tools Needed:

• Food processor or high-powered blender

• Microplane (for zesting)

• Rubber spatula

• Serving bowl or ramekin

Substitutions:

• No food processor? Mash everything with a fork for a rustic, chunkier spread.

• Vegan version? Use plant-based feta and dairy-free yogurt.

• No lemon? A splash of red wine vinegar adds similar acidity.

This recipe plays beautifully with creativity. I’ve even stirred in sun-dried tomatoes for a smoky variation or used it as a base for flatbreads like the ones topped with Mediterranean flavors in this Green Olive Dip.

Pair it with crisp cucumber sticks, roasted pita, or slather it onto Whipped Feta Dip with Honey Pistachios crostini for a more indulgent take.

 Cooking Instructions & Tips 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:
Add crumbled feta and pitted green olives to your food processor.

Step 2:
Add garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Pulse 3–4 times until roughly chopped.

Step 3:
With processor running, drizzle in olive oil. Blend until smooth or slightly chunky — your choice.

Step 4 (Optional):
For a silkier texture, add Greek yogurt and pulse once more.
Taste and adjust seasoning — it likely won’t need salt.

Tips & Tricks

• Texture: Pulse instead of blend for a chunkier, rustic dip.

• Zest early: Zest your lemon before cutting it to avoid juice-mess.

• Make ahead: This dip tastes even better after a few hours chilled.

Serve it alongside crisp salads like this Greek Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad or tangy sides like the Pear and Pomegranate Spinach Salad for a complete Mediterranean spread.

 Serving, Storing & Pairing 

What to Serve It With

This green olive and feta cheese dip shines on an appetizer platter but also moonlights as a sandwich spread or power bowl topping. Try these combinations:

• Fresh veggie sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)

• Pita chips or warm naan

• Rustic bread slices or toasted sourdough

• Swirled on top of Roasted Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Bowls for tangy contrast

• Dolloped over Honey Feta Sweet Potato Bites for an elegant hors d’oeuvre

How to Store and Reheat

Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to develop — even improve — after the first day.

Freezing:
Not recommended. Feta tends to crumble and separate once frozen.

Reheating:
This dip is best served cold or room temperature. If it firms up too much, stir in a teaspoon of olive oil to refresh it.

If you’re planning a party, make it the day before and give it a good stir before serving. For a fresh visual boost, garnish with chopped herbs, a swirl of oil, or even crushed pistachios for extra crunch.

Looking for a zesty drink pairing? It’s dreamy with crisp white wine or a gin and tonic spritz with citrus.

FAQ 

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — in fact, it gets better after chilling for a few hours.

Which olives work best?
Castelvetrano for buttery richness, or Manzanilla for briny punch.

Is this dip vegetarian?
Yes! As long as your feta is made with vegetarian rennet.

Can I use black olives instead?
You could, but it changes the flavor dramatically. Stick with green olives for brightness.

How do I make it spicier?
Add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.

Can I use pre-crumbled feta?
You can, but block feta in brine offers superior texture and flavor.

Conclusion 

This green olive and feta cheese dip is one of those recipes that seems too simple to be impressive — until you taste it. The marriage of creamy feta and tangy olives makes it a standout whether you’re prepping for a holiday party or a Tuesday night snack.

Its versatility means you’ll always find a reason to make it again. Whether spooned onto roasted veggies, folded into wraps, or savored with a glass of wine and good company, this dip delivers in every bite.

Looking for more ways to elevate your appetizer game? You’ll love this velvety Whipped Feta Dip with Honey Pistachios or try something fresh with this Blueberry Peach Feta Salad.

If you made this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to share it on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/recipesbysylvia/

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