Pineapple and Walnut Cheese Ball ('Tis the Season to Entertain)

This morning as I was heading up the stairs the phone was ringing and I heard Brian catch it.  We are having guests tonight was what he told me as I rounded the hallway.  Since I was cooking the orange marmalade I was in the kitchen anyway so I thought I'd make up something to snack on this evening!!

We had a neighbor named Brenda Remlinger who gave me this recipe back when the boys were in grade school and I have made it many times.  It is especially good served with Sociables Crackers.

Ingredients:

2,  8 Oz. bars of cream cheese
1 large can of crushed pineapple drained through a strainer then pressed on paper towels several times until it is very dry.

Drained and Dried Pineapple.

2 T. minced shallots or onion
2 T. drained pimentos
1/2 C.  finely chopped walnuts
1 C. rough chopped walnuts


Combine the cream cheese, pineapple, shallots and finely chopped walnuts until well mixed.  Then fold in the pimento.


Place 2 large sheets of plastic wrap on a work surface forming a large cross.  Plop the cream cheese mixture in the center of the cross and gather up the wrap (with your hands under it) forming the cheese into a ball.

Place the chopped nutmeats in a shallow bowl and turn the cheese ball into it.  Pressing the nuts with your fingers press them into the sides of the cheese ball and turn it in the nuts until coated.



Refrigerate until serving time.  Serve with assorted crackers and crisp vegetables.