COMPANY CHEESE SPREAD

4 ounces low-fat sharp cheddar cheese
4 ounces non-fat ricotta cheese
1/2 cup walnuts
1/2 cup California dried figs
1/4 cup fresh parsley sprigs
1/4 cup chunked red bell pepper (or 2 tablespoons canned pimento)
1 garlic clove
2 tablespoons low or non-fat milk

If using a food processor, cut low-fat cheddar cheese into cubes. Process until finely chopped.

Add ricotta cheese, process about 10 seconds.

Add remaining ingredients, except milk, and process until all ingredients are finely chopped.

Add milk as needed to reach desired consistency.

Serve with crackers or crisp vegetable sticks.

Source: The California Fig Advisory Board