“Y’all are Invited”

Its late spring in the south which means one thing; outdoor parties!  This is the time of year when the invites pour in to join family or friends or both for backyard soirées.  And here in the south there is one response to every invite; “What should I bring?”

 

Whether going to a formal event or a neighbor’s cookout you cannot go wrong with pimento cheese.  This truly southern delicacy is rich in history and flavor.  Pimento peppers, the jewel of this dish, grown in the US only in the southern states which helped to establish this dainty dish’s persistent presence at southern affairs.

 

There are as many brands of pimento cheese at the grocery stores in NC, SC and GA as there are brands of orange juice.  Last summer my Aunt Robin shared what she considered to be the best brand and asked me to re-create it.  Since then I have been experimenting frequently with different ingredients.

Though I do not believe I have come anywhere close to the one my aunt shared with me I have found my own favorite pimento cheese combination.  The recipe is below.  It is rich and savory.  There is a little kick.  It can be enjoyed either hot straight from the oven, room temperature or even a little chilled.  Try it with chips, crackers, veggies or between dainty sandwich breads.  Of all I have tried so far whole wheat Wheat Thins are my favorite.   Take this to your next outdoor gathering and watch it disappear.

Ingredients:

• 8oz block of extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 8oz block of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tbs cornstarch
• 1 cup low fat mayonaise
• 1 jar (4oz) diced pimientos, drained
• 1/4 cup spanish olives
• 2 tbs sliced banana peppers
• 1 can (4.25oz) lump crabmeat, drained
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp fresh cracked pepper
• 1 tsp dried minced onions

Putting It All Together

1. Combine cheeses in a large bowl.
2. Add cornstarch to cheeses and toss to coat.
3. Stir together mayo and all remaining ingredients in a smaller mixing bowl.
4. Combine mayo mix with cheeses and mix well.
5. Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 1 quart baking dish.
6. Bake at 300 for 30 minutes.

Enjoy!

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