Olive Cheese Bread is a savory and flavorful appetizer or side dish that combines the richness of cheese with the briny goodness of olives. This easy-to-make bread is perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a delicious accompaniment to soups and salads!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread (or Italian bread)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup pitted olives, chopped (green, black, or a mix)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Olive Cheese Bread takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice Bread: Cut the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, chopped olives, mayonnaise, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread

1. Spread Mixture: Evenly spread the cheese and olive mixture over the cut sides of the bread.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Slice into pieces and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Olive Cheese Bread!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Olive Cheese Bread (per serving, based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	10g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	20g
Sugar	1g

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added freshness.
• Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for extra heat.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Olive Cheese Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven before serving to restore crispiness.

Conclusion

Olive Cheese Bread is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together the flavors of cheese and olives in a delightful way. Perfect for entertaining or as a comforting snack, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

FAQs

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the bread just before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread as a substitute for the French bread.