Olive Nut Spread – A Creamy, Savory Classic You’ll Love
Olive Nut Spread is a timeless appetizer that perfectly balances creamy, tangy, and nutty flavors in one irresistible bite. With smooth cream cheese, crunchy pecans, and the briny goodness of green olives, this simple yet elegant spread is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you serve it as a dip, sandwich filling, or snack spread, this old-fashioned favorite never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 💛 Quick & easy: Made in under 10 minutes with simple ingredients.
- 🥖 Versatile: Perfect as a dip, sandwich spread, or party appetizer.
- 🧀 Deliciously creamy: The combo of cream cheese and mayo gives it the perfect texture.
- 🌰 Crunchy twist: Pecans add a delightful contrast to the soft cream cheese base.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup chopped salad olives (green olives with pimentos)
- 2 tablespoons olive juice
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easy mixing. Chop the pecans and olives finely.
- Mix the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Stir until creamy and smooth.
- Add the Flavor: Fold in the chopped pecans, olives, and olive juice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Chill the Spread: Transfer the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve chilled with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables. It also makes a delicious sandwich filling!
Chef Tips & Variations
- 🥪 Make a sandwich spread: Use it between slices of whole-grain bread with lettuce for a quick lunch.
- 🌶️ Add a kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
- 🧄 Flavor boost: Add a dash of garlic powder or lemon zest for extra depth.
- 🍋 Presentation tip: Sprinkle chopped olives or pecans on top before serving.
Storage
- Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Stir before serving if stored for more than a day.
- Do not freeze—cream cheese spreads lose their texture when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use black olives instead of green?
Yes! Black olives will give a milder, less tangy flavor but work just as well.
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Absolutely. It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors blend together.
What’s the best way to serve Olive Nut Spread?
Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or as a sandwich filling for tea parties and brunches.
Olive Nut Spread Recipe
Yield: About 1½ cups | Prep Time: 10 mins | Chill Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup chopped salad olives
- 2 tbsp olive juice
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Stir in chopped pecans, olives, and olive juice.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Chef Tip: For a party touch, serve in a small bowl topped with chopped pecans and parsley!
💬 Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to tag @SmartCookRecipes on Instagram so I can see your creations 🫒✨.