Grandma Delaney’s Cream Cheese and Olive Spread
This simple yet flavorful recipe has been passed down through generations, originating with my grandmother. As a child, she would stuff celery with this cream cheese and olive mixture, and the taste has always stuck with me. These days, I’ve adapted it to be a bit easier to eat by serving it on crackers instead of celery, but the delicious flavors remain the same. It’s the perfect snack to keep on hand, full of nostalgic comfort.
Ingredients:
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed green olives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive brine (from the jar of pimento-stuffed olives)
- 3-4 celery stalks, finely chopped
- Crackers or toast for serving
Instructions:
- Soften the cream cheese:
Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to mix. - Prepare the olives and celery:
While the cream cheese softens, finely chop the pimento-stuffed green olives. You’ll want the pieces small enough to blend evenly into the mixture. Also, chop the celery finely to ensure it incorporates smoothly into the cream cheese spread, making it easier to chew. - Mix the ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped olives, celery, and the olive brine. Using a spatula or a spoon, mix everything together until well combined. The olive brine adds a tangy, salty flavor that balances the creaminess of the cheese, while the pimentos provide a hint of sweetness. - Chill the mixture:
Once the ingredients are well combined, transfer the mixture to a lidded container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days, so it’s always ready for a quick snack. - Serve:
When ready to enjoy, scoop the spread onto your favorite crackers or toast. It’s a savory treat that’s perfect for an afternoon snack, as a quick appetizer, or even just as a simple bite when you’re craving something nostalgic.
Tips:
- You can adjust the amount of olive brine depending on how tangy you like the spread.
- If you prefer a bit of crunch, keep some of the celery in larger pieces.
- For a milder taste, reduce the number of olives and add more cream cheese.
This recipe brings back so many fond memories of Grandma Delaney and continues to be a go-to in my kitchen. Enjoy!