Hot Swiss Almond Cheese Dip

Dinner guests arrive a teensy bit earlier than planned? Party time and the main course isn't quite done yet? Hungry people invading your cooking space before your culinary masterpiece is unveilable? Fear not - Appetizer of Speed and Hunger-Squelching Proportions is on the way!

This delicious dip/spread is not only quite easy, it's also good to make in advance and heat just before serving, so it saves you time (and brain space!). And it's very tasty!

Ingredients:

8 oz cream cheese (1 block), softened

1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1 - 2 green onions/scallions, chopped finely

Fresh-ground black pepper (to taste)

1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Heat oven to 35o degrees F (or 180 degrees C). Mix all ingredients. Spread in baking dish (pie plate, 8x8" square, or something of equivalent size). If you like, sprinkle a few more toasted almond slices on top. Bake until slightly golden, about 12- 15 minutes. Serve with crackers, bread, apple slices... Bon appetit!

If you make this up in advance, save in airtight container in refrigerator. Spread in pan, then bake at least 15 mins, maybe more (since it will be colder to start off) or until slightly golden.

Other options:
* Add a bit of smoky crumbled bacon (maybe about 1/4 cup or so)

* Cut Swiss down to 3/4 cup and add 3/4 cup shredded cheddar, Jack, or another favorite cheese for a different tang. (Just so you know, the Swiss is great for its mild creamy flavor in this, so substitute with judicious care.)

* Artichoke hearts are also wonderful in this... Add about a 1/4 cup, chopped finely