Zesty Pimiento Cheese

4 ounces cream cheese

¼ cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons marinated hot peppers (or pickled jalapeno slices)

2 tablespoons marinated garlic cloves (or plain garlic)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 jar (4 ounces) chopped pimientos, drained

8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese

8 ounces shredded pepper jack cheese

In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, hot peppers, garlic and mustard. Process until smooth. Add the pimientos and pulse just until combined. Transfer to a medium bowl. Add the cheddar and jack cheeses, then stir to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Serves 16.

Nutrition values per serving: 150 calories, 13 g fat (7 g saturated; 0 trans), 2 g carbohydrates, 0 fiber, 0 sugar, 8 g protein, 40 mg cholesterol, 240 mg sodium.

Alison Ladman for The Associated Press