Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green olives
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Serving dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green olives, chopped black olives, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
3. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and smooth out the top with a spatula.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Before serving, garnish with additional chopped olives and parsley if desired.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 1 hour
Temperature:
- Refrigerate at 40°F or below
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 1/2 cups
- Serves 6-8 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 130 per serving
- Total fat: 12g
- Saturated fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Total carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese.
- Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano cheese or Asiago cheese.
- Instead of green and black olives, you can use Kalamata olives or a mix of your favorite olives.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and crunch.
- Use this as a spread for sandwiches or as a dip for vegetables or crackers.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preference.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This recipe is meant to be served cold, so there is no need to reheat it.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a small bowl or ramekin with a spoon for easy spreading.
- Arrange on a platter with crackers, vegetables, and cured meats for a colorful appetizer spread.
Garnishes:
- Chopped olives and fresh parsley
Pairings:
- Serve with crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette.
Suggested side dishes:
- Antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables
- Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil
- Grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the mixture is too thin, add more cream cheese or Parmesan cheese to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to refrigerate the dish at 40°F or below to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Formaggio alla crema con olive is a popular Italian appetizer that is often served at parties and gatherings.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, tangy, and savory with a hint of garlic and herbs.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack before a meal.
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Region: Italian