Pimiento-Cheese Dip

This is just the thing for your Super Bowl Party!  Pimiento cheese dip is one of those comfort foods that can serve as a really delicious appetizer or as a cheese spread.  If you’re looking for a whole lot of comfort, use the spread to make a sandwich on white bread and grill it like grilled cheese. (Sublime!)  If it’s an appetizer you’re after, put it in a small bowl or serving dish, and surround it with chips, crackers, toast points, or celery sticks.

Whenever I’ve been served this dip I found that if you don’t get to it when it’s first put on the table, there won’t be any left in a few minutes.  Everyone seems to really like it, and its extremely easy to make.

PIMIENTO-CHEESE DIP

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup butter or cream cheese, softened  (Ease your conscience a little, use the low-fat variety.)
• 1 ( 4 ounce ) jar chopped pimientos, drained
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp. salt or to taste
• 1/4 tsp. white sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, optional

Beat the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise and softened butter or cream cheese in a mixing bowl with a mixer on low speed until well blended.

Add the pimientos, garlic powder, salt and sugar; mix to combine.  Stir in the pecans if using.

Additional notes:   This recipe can become too salty, if using salted butter, so taste before adding the salt and adjust amount accordingly.  This becomes particularly important if serving with salty chips or crackers.  Another nice addition is chopped black olives especially if serving with finger-cut raw veggies.

This does not last long once put out on the table.

SOURCE:   All-Recipes.com