8 ounces Cabot Sharp or Extra Sharp Cheddar, grated (about 2 cups)*
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons coarse-grained Dijon mustard
1 small clove garlic, minced
1/4-1/3 cup white wine or beer

1. In food processor, combine cheese, butter, mustard and garlic.

2. Process until smooth, about 1 minute, adding enough of wine or beer to make spread of desired consistency.(Spread can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 week).

* You can easily vary the flavor of this quick spread by using one of Cabot's flavored cheddars - try Horseradish, Tomato Basil, or Garlic and Herb. Or embellish the basic recipe by adding some artichoke pesto, tomato pesto or chopped black olives.

When ready to serve, allow the spread to soften at room temperature and mound it in a bowl. Surround it with slices of interesting hearty breads like multi-grain, walnut, or rosemary.

Add more bowls of dried fruits like apricots or figs, plus some warm, lightly salted pecans (roasted in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes). Tie a simple bouquet of fresh rosemary with a holiday ribbon for garnish.

Nutrition Analysis
Calories 49, Total Fat 4g, Saturated Fat 3g, Sodium 85mg, Carbohydrates 0g, Dietary Fiber <1g, Protein 2g, Calcium 70mg