Holiday Olive and Pepper Cheese
Description
Holiday Olive and Pepper Cheese is a creamy, savory, and colorful appetizer perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, and snack boards. Made with smooth cream cheese, sharp cheddar, crunchy peppers, and flavorful olives, this festive cheese spread is packed with bold flavor and beautiful texture. Serve it with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables for an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped green olives
- ¼ cup chopped black olives
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Extra olives or peppers
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Finely chop olives, bell pepper, and green onions.
Step 2: Mix Cheese Base
In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar until creamy.
Step 3: Add Vegetables & Seasoning
Stir in olives, bell pepper, green onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper until evenly combined.
Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish if desired. Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
Recipe Notes
- Softened cream cheese mixes more smoothly.
- Green and red peppers make the dish colorful and festive.
- Sharp cheddar adds bold cheesy flavor.
- Chilling improves flavor and texture.
Tips for Best Results
- Drain olives well to avoid excess moisture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture.
- Add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Shape into a cheese ball for holiday presentation.
Servings
Serves: 8–10
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
(Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits
- Olives contain healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Bell peppers provide vitamin C and color.
- Homemade cheese spreads avoid many preservatives found in packaged dips.
- Great appetizer option for entertaining and gatherings.
- Can be paired with fresh vegetables for a balanced snack.
Q&A About Holiday Olive and Pepper Cheese
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Q: Can I turn this into a cheese ball?
Absolutely. Shape and roll in chopped nuts or herbs.
Q: What olives work best?
Green olives, black olives, or Kalamata olives all work well.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended because cream cheese texture may change.
Q: What should I serve with it?
Crackers, pretzels, breadsticks, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables pair perfectly.