Olive spread is typically dairy-free, as it is made primarily from olives, olive oil, and sometimes additional flavorings or ingredients like garlic, herbs, or spices. However, some olive spreads may contain dairy if mixed with butter, cream cheese, or other dairy-based ingredients. Read the ingredient list and check for any allergen information on the packaging to ensure that the specific olive spread you are considering is dairy-free.
Best Dairy-Free Olive Spread Brands
Lindsay Naturals – Their Green and Black Olive Tapenade is dairy-free and made with simple ingredients like olives, olive oil, and spices.
Divina – They offer a variety of dairy-free olive spreads, such as their Kalamata Olive Spread and Green Olive Spread.
Mezzetta – This brand has a dairy-free Olive, Parmesan & Garlic Spread, and a Sun-Ripened Dried Tomato & Kalamata Olive Spread.
Gaea – Their Olive Tapenade is dairy-free and made with Kalamata olives, extra virgin olive oil, and a blend of Mediterranean herbs.
Mediterranean Organic – They have a dairy-free Green Olive Spread made with organic green olives and extra virgin olive oil.
Dishes to make with Dairy-Free Olive Spread
Bruschetta
Spread the olive spread on slices of toasted baguette or crusty bread, and top with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Pasta Salad
Toss cooked pasta with dairy-free olive spread, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs, like parsley or basil. Add dairy-free cheese, like vegan feta or mozzarella, for a Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad.
Panini
Use dairy-free olive spread as a base for a panini or grilled sandwich. Layer with roasted vegetables, fresh greens, and dairy-free cheese, then grill until crispy and warm.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Mix dairy-free olive spread with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Stuff mushroom caps with the mixture and bake till the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Roasted Vegetables
Toss vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant, in a mixture of dairy-free olive spread, minced garlic, and herbs. Roast until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Remember that you can get creative with dairy-free olive spread, using it as a base for dressings, marinades, or sauces, or simply enjoying it as a dip with fresh vegetables or crackers.
Can you make Dairy-Free Olive Spread at Home? Dairy-Free Olive Oil Spread
You can easily make dairy-free olive spread at home with simple ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe for a homemade dairy-free olive spread.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives or a mix of your favorite olives (green, black, etc.)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place the pitted olives, minced garlic, capers, and chopped parsley in a food processor or blender.
- Pulse a few times to combine the ingredients, but don’t over-process; you want the mixture to have some texture.
- Add the olive oil and lemon juice to the mixture. Pulse again to incorporate the liquids. Add more olive oil to achieve the desired consistency if the mixture is too thick.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that olives and capers are salty, so be cautious when adding salt.
- Transfer the olive spread to a bowl or a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers, or use in recipes as desired.
Adjust the recipe to your taste preferences, adding more garlic, herbs, or other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or anchovies for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Olive Spread Healthy?
Olive spread can be a healthy addition to your diet, primarily made from olives and olive oil. Olives are a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E, while olive oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and heart health benefits. However, it’s important to consume olive spread in moderation, as it can be high in sodium and calories. Choose options made from natural ingredients and without added sugars or artificial additives for a healthier choice.
Is Olive Spread Vegan?
Most olive spreads are vegan, made primarily from olives, olive oil, and other plant-based ingredients like garlic, herbs, or spices. However, some olive spreads may contain non-vegan ingredients like cheese, anchovies, or honey, so it’s important to read the ingredient list to ensure the olive spread you’re considering is vegan-friendly.
Is Olive Spread Gluten-Free?
Olive spread is typically gluten-free, as the main ingredients are olives and olive oil, which are naturally gluten-free. However, some olive spreads may contain added ingredients or flavorings that contain gluten or be processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing ingredients, which could lead to cross-contamination. To ensure that an olive spread is gluten-free, check the label for a gluten-free certification or look for a clear statement from the manufacturer regarding its gluten-free status.
