Get ready to transform your appetizer game with this irresistible Cream Cheese Spread that promises to transport you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean! Imagine a creamy, luxurious blend of tangy cream cheese dancing with the bold flavors of green olives, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil. This isn't just another spread - it's a flavor explosion that will have your guests begging for the recipe and wondering how you became such a culinary genius in just 10 minutes of prep time!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped green olives
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and allow it to soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. This will ensure easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- While cream cheese is softening, prepare the additional ingredients. Finely chop green olives, ensuring they are uniform in size for even distribution throughout the spread.
- Drain and pat sun dried tomatoes dry with paper towels to remove excess oil. Chop them into small, consistent pieces approximately 1/4 inch in size.
- Wash fresh basil leaves thoroughly and pat dry. Carefully chop the basil into fine ribbons using a sharp knife to release maximum flavor.
- In a medium mixing bowl, place the softened cream cheese. Using a spatula or electric mixer, gently blend the cream cheese until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Add chopped green olives, sun dried tomatoes, and fresh basil to the cream cheese. Fold ingredients together gently but thoroughly, ensuring even distribution.
- Transfer the spread to a serving dish. For best presentation, use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls on the surface.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together. Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable crudités.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your cream cheese soften at room temperature to ensure a smooth, spreadable consistency. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumpy, uneven mixing.
- Precision in Chopping: Take your time when chopping olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Uniform, small pieces ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Moisture Management: Pat your sun-dried tomatoes dry to prevent excess oil from making your spread too runny.
- Flavor Melding: Refrigerating the spread for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the ingredients to mingle and intensify their flavors.
- Presentation Matters: Use the back of a spoon to create elegant swirls on the surface, making your spread look as amazing as it tastes.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a variety of dippers like crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks to add texture and appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
