Creamy Blue Cheese Rice with Spinach and Walnuts

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup water
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed, undrained
1 (4-ounce) package crumbled blue cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 cups cooked rice
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toast

Heat cream cheese and water in large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir until cheese is melted, 3 to 5 minutes. Add spinach, blue cheese, salt and pepper; cook 2 minutes.

Add rice; cook until heated through, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in walnuts.

*To toast walnuts, spread nuts on small baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.

Makes 8 servings
From: Elizabeth Matlin; Wilmette, IL
Source: USA Rice Federation