There’s something remarkably comforting about a good dip. It’s the dish that gathers people around a table, unites chips with conversation, and brings parties to life. And when that dip is this Green Olive Dip, you’ve got a guaranteed hit. Briny, creamy, tangy — it’s everything an appetizer should be, and then some. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back gathering or preparing snacks for a Sunday movie night, this dip is your secret weapon.
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The Story & Intro
A Zesty Bite of Nostalgia
This green olive dip has been on my snack table for years. I first encountered it during a family reunion potluck — one of those tables brimming with unexpected treasures. Nestled between deviled eggs and tortilla pinwheels was this unassuming bowl of creamy, pale green spread, garnished simply with lemon slices. One bite, and I was hooked. The green olive dip delivered a briny punch with a velvety cream cheese base that kept you reaching for more.
At first, I thought it was one of those complicated recipes that required a dozen specialty ingredients. But after chatting with my cousin, I realized how simple and adaptable it really was. That very night, I scribbled the recipe on a napkin — a napkin that’s now been taped into my family cookbook. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it just a bit, playing with the brine, the garlic powder, and a splash of creativity.
Why This Recipe is Special
What makes this green olive dip so spectacular is its versatility and flavor payoff. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to whip up something that tastes gourmet. The recipe takes just 10 minutes to make, but after chilling, it transforms into an addictively tangy, smooth dip that holds its own alongside any charcuterie board.
If you’ve loved recipes like these Mediterranean Lemon Chickpea Patties or the crowd-pleasing Cottage Cheese Spinach Crustless Quiche, you’ll appreciate the flavor layering here.
And don’t underestimate the power of nostalgia. For many, the taste of pimento-stuffed olives takes us back to holiday gatherings, backyard picnics, and church potlucks. It’s a classic flavor that feels familiar and indulgent all at once. This recipe honors that memory, with a refreshing, creamy twist.
Ingredients & Preparation
Ingredient Breakdown
The beauty of this green olive dip is in its short ingredient list — yet each one plays a key role. Below is an overview, along with a handy table for quick reference:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 2 (8-oz) packages | Softened for best texture |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Gives it creamy tang |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp | Optional but recommended |
| Garlic Powder | ½–1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Green Olives with Pimentos | 6 oz (drained) | Chopped or pulsed |
| Olive Brine | 1–3 tbsp | To thin and boost flavor |
Tools and Simple Swaps
All you truly need for this dish is a food processor. If you don’t have one, a hand mixer and some fine chopping will do the job — just expect a chunkier dip.
As for substitutions, Greek yogurt can stand in for half the mayo if you want to lighten it up. Not a garlic lover? Reduce or omit the garlic powder. Want a spicy kick? Add a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper.
Pairing this recipe with crunchy sides like Greek Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad or Cucumber Cottage Cheese Wraps can create a fresh, well-rounded appetizer spread.
The real key is using room-temperature cream cheese. This isn’t just for easy mixing — it makes the entire dip creamier, silkier, and more cohesive.
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prep Your Base
Start by placing the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise into a food processor. Blend until completely smooth and combined.
(Insert Image: Step 1 – Blending cream cheese and mayo in food processor)
Step 2: Season It Right
Add in your onion powder and garlic powder. If you’re unsure about the garlic, start small and taste as you go.
(Insert Image: Step 2 – Adding spices to the mix)
Step 3: Add the Olives
Toss in your drained green olives. Pulse until the olives are chopped and evenly dispersed but not fully puréed — unless you prefer a smoother texture.
(Insert Image: Step 3 – Green olives mid-pulse in food processor)
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of the reserved olive brine. Blend, taste, and add more brine a tablespoon at a time until your dip reaches your desired texture.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Transfer the dip to a sealed container or serving bowl. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours — overnight is even better — to let the flavors meld.
Tips for Success
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Softening the cream cheese is crucial. Let it rest at room temp for about 30–45 minutes.
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For a smoky touch, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
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Garnish with chopped olives or a lemon twist for a visual pop.
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This dip pairs beautifully with pita chips, crackers, celery sticks, or toasted baguette slices.
If you’re a fan of fast, flavorful dips, you’ll love the vibrant punch this one packs — not unlike the 5-Minute Bruschetta Dip or the Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipes I’ve shared before.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve With Green Olive Dip
This green olive dip is beautifully bold on its own, but pair it right and it truly shines.
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Serve with grilled baguette slices, seeded crackers, or pita chips.
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Offer fresh veggies like cucumber rounds, celery sticks, or radishes for crunch and color.
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Add it to a mezze platter featuring hummus, grape leaves, and Greek-Style Loaded Hummus.
One of my favorite pairings is with Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta — the sweetness balances the dip’s briny kick so beautifully.
Storing and Reheating
This dip stores wonderfully. After making it:
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Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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It actually gets better after 24 hours as the garlic and brine mellow and deepen.
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Freezing isn’t recommended due to the dairy content — it may separate upon thawing.
If it gets too thick after chilling, stir in a bit more brine or a spoonful of mayo to loosen it up. Serve chilled or allow it to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
FAQ
Can I make this green olive dip ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best made at least 2 hours ahead. Letting it chill overnight enhances the flavor.
Can I use black olives instead of green?
You can, but the flavor will be milder and less tangy. Green olives provide the punch this dip is known for.
What if I don’t have olive brine?
Use a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar to mimic the acidity, but the brine adds that signature salty tang.
Is this dip keto or low carb?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in fat, making it ideal for keto or low-carb lifestyles.
How do I make it spicier?
Add a dash of cayenne, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños.
Conclusion
This green olive dip is a tangy, creamy, unforgettable crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish you whip up on short notice but remember long after the last cracker has been dipped. Whether you serve it at summer parties, game days, or as a snack for yourself, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your rotation.
If you loved this recipe, I highly recommend trying the Mediterranean Tuna Salad or the always refreshing Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad next.
If you try this green olive dip, don’t forget to leave a rating, drop a comment, and share it on Pinterest here. I’d love to see your creations!
Print
Green Olive Dip – Easy Creamy Party Favorite
- Total Time: 130
- Yield: 3 cups
Description
Green Olive Dip is a creamy, tangy, and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties, game day, or any gathering. Bursting with briny green olive flavor and mellow cream cheese, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ – 1 teaspoon garlic powder, to taste
• 6 ounces green olives with pimento, drained (save the brine)
• 1-3 tablespoons olive brine
Instructions
1. Add cream cheese and mayonnaise to a food processor. Blend until smooth.
2. Add onion powder and garlic powder. Mix until fully incorporated.
3. Add the green olives. Pulse until olives are evenly mixed — leave a little texture.
4. Add 1 tablespoon olive brine and blend. Continue adding brine until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
– Use room-temperature cream cheese for best texture.
– Start with ½ tsp garlic powder and increase to taste.
– Refrigerate for 2+ hours to let flavors meld.
– Serve with crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks.
– Not recommended for freezing — best enjoyed fresh within 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tablespoons
- Calories: 149
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 454
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 9