Basil-lovers spread

Ingredients

2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 1/2 cups firmly packed fresh basil
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
2 tbsp. olive oil
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 (3-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and diced

Directions

Place garlic, basil and pine nuts in a food processor bowl. Process until smooth. With processor running, add oil and lemon juice. Add Parmesan cheese, cream cheese and salt. Process just until blended, scraping down the sides of the bowl if needed.  Place mixture in a serving bowl. Top with drained sun-dried tomatoes. Cover with plastic wrap and chill thoroughly before serving with crackers or baguette slices.

Makes 10 appetizer servings