Savory Basil Cheesecake Appetizer

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Savory Basil Cheesecake Appetizer

Serves: 50

 

Ingredients

1 cup Italian style breadcrumbs

3 Tbsps. unsalted butter, melted

1 cup basil leaves, packed

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 cup light mayonnaise

1 lb. ricotta cheese

1 oz. blue cheese

1-1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup almonds, (optional) toasted and finely chopped

3 Tbsps. slivered almonds, (optional)

2 Tbsps. fresh chives, (optional)

 

Instructions

Combine crumbs and butter in a bowl. Press into bottom of a lightly

greased 8 or 9 inch springform pan. Chill. Combine basil, garlic and

mayonnaise in food processor or blender until smooth. Set aside. Beat

together 3 cheeses in a mixing bowl until well blended. Beat in reserved

basil mixture.

 

Spread mixture over crust, pressing and smoothing top. Chill at least 8

hours or overnight. When ready to serve, remove sides of pan and place

cake on a platter. Press chopped toasted almonds onto sides of

cheesecake, if desired. To garnish top of cheesecake, make `flower´

with slivered almonds and chive stems, if desired. Serve with assorted

crackers, vegetable slices and toasts.

 

Tip: Mascarpone cheese may be substituted for the ricotta for a

smoother, milder flavor. For more cheese flavor, substitute half the

Parmesan with Asiago cheese.