Minty Garlic Spread

"This wonderfully tangy mint-and-garlic spread comes from an ancient Roman cookbook and is great with raw or grilled veggies. Perfect for your next affair."

3 cups cubed italian bread, crusts on
3 tablespoons fruit vinegar
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
salt and pepper
1/3 cup fresh mint leaves
assorted raw or grilled vegetables and flatbreads for dipping

Place the bread cubes in a food processor. Mix the vinegar into 1/2 cup water, pour over the bread, and toss. Let stand until the bread is soft and has absorbed all the liquid, about 10 minutes.

Add the garlic, honey, coriander, cumin, and Parmesan. Puree until smooth.

Slowly add the olive oil and continue to puree until incorporated.

Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the mint leaves and pulse a few times to incorporate.

Serve in a bowl surrounded by assorted vegetables and flatbreads.

Serves 10
Excerpted from Movie Menus by Francine Segan
Copyright © 2004 by Francine Segan. Excerpted by permission of Villard, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.