*  Exported from  MasterCook  *

                       SUN-DRIED TOMATO CHEESE BALL

Recipe By     : 
Serving Size  : 6    Preparation Time :0:00
Categories    : Appetizers                       Cheese/Eggs

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
                        *INGREDIENTS*
   3       oz           Sun-dried tomatoes -
                        -blanched*
   8       oz           Cream cheese
   8       oz           Unsalted butter - OR
                        -margarine
   1       c            Parmesan - freshly grated
   2       tb           Olive oil
   2       c            Basil leaves - fresh,
                        -lightly packed
                        Crackers (your favorite)

  Calories     per serving:             Number of Servings:   0 Fat grams per
  serving:              Approx. Cook Time: Cholesterol per serving: Marks:
  
  *DIRECTIONS*
  
  BLANCHING TECHNIQUE: Bring 1-quart of water to boil. Submerge tomatoes in
  boiling water for 3 minutes to reconstitute. Take 4 aside and cut into
  strips.
  
  In a food processor, combine cream cheese, butter, Parmesan, olive oil and
  remaining sun-dried tomatoes.  Process until smooth. Place in refrigerator
  for about 30 minutes, or until firm enough to shape into a ball. Place
  cheese ball on a platter. Arrange basil leaves and reserved tomato strips
  around cheese ball like a sunburst. To serve, spread on your favorite
  crackers.
  
  Makes 2-1/2 cups.
  
  Recipe from Melissa's brand Sun-dried Tomatoes.
  
  This recipe was called "Dried Tomato Dip" but I sure didn't see it as a dip
  so I renamed it.  I guess it could be a spread, but sure can't see
  "dipping" anything into this as it would be too stiff.
 


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