Marinated Olive Dip

This Marinated Olive Dip is a tangy, flavorful appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. A creamy whipped cottage cheese base is topped with a zesty blend of marinated olives, garlic, and spices, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a snack, this dip is perfect with pita, crackers, or fresh veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of olives, this dip is a must-try. The marinated olives pack a punch of flavor with a bit of spice, tang from lemon, and a rich, aromatic kick from garlic and herbs. The whipped cottage cheese base adds a creamy, smooth texture that complements the bold olives perfectly. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional dips and will quickly become a favorite in your appetizer rotation. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time, and it can be made ahead for convenience.

Ingredients

For the Marinated Olives:

• 1 cup mixed olives (green and black, pitted)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 small garlic clove, sliced

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh thyme/rosemary)

• Optional: a few strips of orange peel, crushed walnuts

For the Whipped Cottage Cheese:

• 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese

• 2 tablespoons cream cheese or Greek yogurt (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small garlic clove (optional), grated or minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Olives:
   In a bowl or jar, combine the olives with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, sliced garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Stir well and let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For more intense flavor, refrigerate it longer.

2. Make the Whipped Cottage Cheese:
   In a food processor or blender, blend together the cottage cheese, optional cream cheese or Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon zest (if using). Process until smooth and creamy, about 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Assemble and Serve:
   Spread the whipped cottage cheese on a plate or in a serving bowl. Top with the marinated olives, and drizzle with a spoonful of the infused olive oil from the marinated olives. Garnish with flaky salt or fresh herbs if desired.

4. Serve with:
   Warm pita, crusty bread, crackers, or raw veggies for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Marinate Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 6

Variations

• Add Nuts: Incorporate some crushed walnuts or almonds into the marinated olives for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the whipped cottage cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or a plant-based yogurt to make this recipe dairy-free.

• Herb Variations: Swap oregano for fresh rosemary or thyme for a different herb profile in the marinated olives.

• Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice up the dip.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover marinated olives in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The whipped cottage cheese can also be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: The whipped cottage cheese dip is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If you’d like the dip to be slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, this dip can be made a day ahead. Just keep the marinated olives and whipped cottage cheese separate in the fridge, and assemble just before serving.

What other toppings can I add to this dip?

You can add fresh herbs, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even chopped sun-dried tomatoes to elevate the dip even further.

Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?

You can use non-fat cottage cheese, but full-fat will give the dip a richer, creamier texture.

Can I marinate the olives overnight?

Yes, marinating the olives overnight will allow the flavors to develop even more, making the dip even tastier.

Can I use store-bought marinated olives?

If you’re short on time, store-bought marinated olives will work, but the homemade marinade adds extra flavor and customization to the dip.

What’s the best type of olives to use?

A mix of green and black olives adds a good balance of flavors. You can use any type of olives you prefer, such as Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or Arbequina.

Can I serve this dip warm?

While it’s typically served cold or at room temperature, you can warm the whipped cottage cheese slightly before serving, but the marinated olives are best enjoyed cold.

How can I make this dip spicier?

To make the dip spicier, you can add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or even include some chopped fresh chilies.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?

Yes, Greek yogurt will work as an alternative to cream cheese for a lighter, tangier flavor.

Can I make this dip without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can omit it from both the marinated olives and whipped cottage cheese. The dip will still be delicious without it.

Conclusion

This Marinated Olive Dip is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer that will impress your guests with its tangy, spicy, and creamy layers. Whether you’re serving it for a party or as a snack, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. The combination of whipped cottage cheese and marinated olives is a unique twist on traditional dips, making this recipe a must-try for any olive lover. Enjoy it with your favorite dippers and get ready for rave reviews!

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