Imagine a creamy, tantalizing spread that transports you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean with just one bite. This Olive and Goat Cheese Spread is not just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or craving a quick, luxurious snack, this spread promises to elevate your appetizer game and leave your guests begging for more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed olives, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of mixed olives (ensure they are pitted), 4 ounces of goat cheese, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the pitted mixed olives in a food processor. If you don't have a food processor, you can finely chop the olives by hand, but using a processor will give a smoother texture.
- Add the goat cheese to the food processor with the olives. The goat cheese should be at room temperature to make blending easier.
- Pour in the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will help to create a creamy consistency and enhance the flavor of the spread.
- Add the freshly chopped thyme to the mixture. If you prefer a stronger thyme flavor, you can add a bit more.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the olives can be salty, so start with a small amount of salt and adjust as needed.
- Pulse the food processor until all the ingredients are well combined and reach your desired consistency. You can blend it until smooth or leave it slightly chunky for more texture.
- Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or thyme according to your preference.
- Transfer the olive and goat cheese spread to a serving bowl. You can drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for presentation and added flavor.
- Serve the spread immediately with your choice of crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate for up to a week to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ingredients: Select a mix of olives with varied flavors like Kalamata, green, and black olives for a complex taste profile.
- Temperature matters: Ensure your goat cheese is at room temperature for smoother blending and easier mixing.
- Texture control: Pulse the food processor in short bursts to control the consistency. For a rustic feel, leave some olive chunks; for a silky spread, blend longer.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: If possible, use fresh thyme from your garden or a high-quality source for the most vibrant flavor.
- Make ahead and let flavors develop: While delicious immediately, this spread tastes even better if refrigerated for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serving suggestions: Beyond crackers, try spreading on toasted baguette slices, using as a sandwich condiment, or as a gourmet pizza topping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
