Pinecone Spinach-Cheese Spread

Ingredients:

• 1 cup tightlly packed baby spinach leaves
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 pkg. (8 oz.) brick cream cheese, softened
• 1 pkg. (8 oz.) shredded Italian cheese blend
• 2 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
•  RITZ Crackers

Directions:

• Process  spinach, oil and garlic in food processor until well blended. Add next 3 ingredients; process until well blended.
• Shape  into 4-inch oval on sheet of waxed paper.
• Insert  nuts in rows to completely cover cream cheese mixture to resemble pinecone. Refrigerate 2 hours. Remove from refrigerator 15 min. before serving. Serve with crackers.

* Made with quality cheeses crafted in the USA.

Recipe Tips:

Size-Wise Enjoy eating appetizers at a social occasion, but be mindful of portion size so you don't overdo it on calories.

Special Extra Mix 1 tsp. hot pepper sauce into cream cheese mixture before shaping as directed.

Make Ahead Cheese spread can be stored in refrigerator up to 5 days before serving.

Source: ritzparade.com