White wine cheese ball

MAKES 8 SERVINGS

1 (8-ounce) package light cream cheese, room temperature

1/2 cup shredded sharp white Cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons dry white wine

1 to 2 tablespoons grated white onion or finely minced scallions

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon hot red pepper sauce

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Extras (optional): minced crisp bacon, chopped scallions, dried chipped beef, shredded smoked trout, fresh crab meat, chopped hard-boiled egg, capers

1/2 cup chopped pistachios, toasted

In medium bowl, combine all ingredients except pistachios and mix until well combined. Stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of one of optional ingredients, if desired.

Form into a ball (may be slightly soft). Cover in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.

Roll cheese ball in chopped pistachios and re-wrap. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve with crackers or toasted slices of baguettes. This holds up to 7 days, covered and refrigerated.

Carlyn Berghoff, Berghoff Catering and Restaurant Group

Nutrition facts per serving: 137 calories, 11 g fat, 5 g saturated fat, 23 mg cholesterol, 3 g carbohydrates, 6 g protein, 251 mg sodium, 1 g fiber