Cheryl McKay is a fabulous cook, and entertains constantly. That means, of course, she's also invited to dozens of parties. Etiquette rules give the expectation that when invited over, we ask the hostess what we can bring. Cheryl, who travels extensively for a living and has minimum time to spend at home and especially in the kitchen, must, more often than not, make something spur-of-the-moment to take with her. Cheryl's Spur-Of-The-Moment Mediterranean Dip is a fall-back recipe for her, since it can be made in about 15 minutes. It's attractive, and most importantly, absolutely yummy and addictive. Although this dip is perfect for anytime of the year, because of the colors, it's perfect for holiday parties. The toppings can be varied, of course, according to what's available in the fridge and personal preferences. Red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers could be added, as well as feta cheese crumbles or diced red onion. Imagination can take over here, but Cheryl's version is always a favorite, and really doesn't need any tweaking.

For those who like Mediterranean condiments, the Kalamata olives, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, jarred chopped garlic, and olive oil are most-likely already on the pantry shelf or in the refrigerator. And for those lucky enough to have an herb garden, fresh basil will be available as well. Otherwise, visit your local grocery store, stock up on the ingredients ahead of time, and it will be possible to make this dip anytime it suits your fancy. Good dippers include pita chips, baguette slices, bruschetta toasts, crackers, or even tortilla chips.

24 Servings


2 8 oz. packages softened cream cheese
3 teaspoons finely chopped garlic

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons drained capers
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
1 bunch basil, cut chiffonade or coarsely chopped

1. Whip the cream cheese with the garlic; spread evenly over a small plate or into a shallow dish.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the surface of the dip.
3. Sprinkle decoratively with the capers, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
4. Serve with crackers, crispy toasts, pita chips, or crusty baguette slices for dipping.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 81 Calories from Fat 71
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 87% Protein 8% Carb. 5%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 8 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Cholesterol 21 mg
Sodium 128 mg
Total Carbohydrate 1 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 2 g

Vitamin A 6% Vitamin C 1% Calcium 0% Iron 2%