Herbed Cream Cheese & Olive Tapenade

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Herbed Cream Cheese & Olive Tapenade

Table of Contents

 Description

This elegant Herbed Cream Cheese & Olive Tapenade is a flavorful duo combining creamy, herb-infused cheese with a bold, briny olive spread. The smooth, garlicky cream cheese balances perfectly with the rich, savory tapenade made from olives, capers, and herbs. It’s a stunning appetizer—perfect for entertaining, charcuterie boards, or dipping with crackers and bread.

 Ingredients

For the Herbed Cream Cheese:

  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the Olive Tapenade:

  • 1 cup mixed olives (black & green, pitted)
  • 1 tbsp capers
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

 Instructions

1. Make Herbed Cream Cheese

  • In a bowl, mix cream cheese, olive oil, herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

2. Prepare Tapenade

  • Finely chop olives, capers, garlic, and parsley (or pulse in a food processor).
  • Mix with olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper.

3. Assemble

  • Spread herbed cream cheese on one side of a serving dish.
  • Spoon olive tapenade beside or on top.
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4. Garnish & Serve

  • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs.
  • Serve with crackers, bread, or pita chips.

 Servings

  • Serves: 4–6 people

 Notes

  • Use high-quality olives for best flavor.
  • Tapenade can be chunky or smooth depending on preference.
  • Best served slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Best Results

  • Let cream cheese soften fully for easy mixing.
  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
  • Chill briefly to enhance flavor blending.
  • Serve with toasted baguette slices for a gourmet touch.

 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 180–250 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 4–6g
  • Protein: 3–5g
  • Fat: 16–22g

 Health Benefits

  • Healthy fats – from olive oil and olives
  • Antioxidants – olives and herbs support heart health
  • Calcium source – from cream cheese
  • Flavorful & satisfying – small portions go a long way

 Q&A

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Both components can be made 1–2 days ahead.

Q2: How long does it last?

Up to 4–5 days in the fridge.

Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based cream cheese.

Q4: What can I serve it with?

Crackers, pita chips, toast, or veggie sticks.

Q5: Can I make it spicier?

Add chili flakes or a touch of hot sauce to the tapenade.

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