Pimento Cheese is a Southern staple for which every family has their own recipe. This particular recipe is one I’ve toyed with a bit over the years, and it highlights the virtues of the dish. The addition of Cream Cheese adds a little dimension and tang to the spread, and incorporating it into a quick hot appetizer makes a lovely finger food for your Derby gathering.
Ingredients: 8 ounces Shredded Cheddar Cheese 2 ounces Cream Cheese, softened 1 4 ounce jar of Pimentos, drained 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Salt & Pepper to Taste Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional) 1 French Baguette 1/2 pound Bacon, cut into bits
Procedure: Mix first six ingredients in mixing bowl until well-incorporated. Cut Baguette into thin slices Lightly toast Baguette slices under broiler on one side Once cooled, spread thin layer (about 1 tablespoon) of Pimento Cheese Spread on each slice Sprinkle 2 – 3 Bacon Bits on top of each Crostini Place under high broiler for 1 – 2 minutes, or until Pimento Cheese begins to melt and slightly bubble.
