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Pesto Cheese Ring Recipe

With garlic and red pepper flakes, this rich cheese spread has an irresistible zing. It's perfect for parties because a little bit goes a long way. —Amy Cronwall, Stacy, Minnesota

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Pesto Cheese Ring Recipe

Prep: 20 min. + chilling

Yield: 20-24 Servings

20 20

Ingredients

PARSLEY PESTO:
3 cups fresh parsley sprigs
1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons canola oil
10 medium fresh basil leaves
8 garlic cloves
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
CHEESE RING:
4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 to 3 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes
Additional parsley sprigs and chopped walnuts, optional
Assorted crackers or fresh vegetables

Directions

In a food processor, combine the pesto ingredients; cover and process until smooth. Set aside. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth. Gradually add whipping cream and sugar. Stir in onion and red pepper flakes.
Line a 6-cup ring mold with plastic wrap. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture into mold. Top with pesto and remaining cheese mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Invert cheese ring onto a serving plate; remove plastic wrap. Smooth sides and top of ring with a wet knife. Garnish with parsley and nuts if desired. Serve with crackers or vegetables. Yield: 20-24 servings.

Originally published as Pesto Cheese Ring in Taste of Home's Holiday & Celebrations Cookbook Annual 2001, p32