1 cup of drained canned whole tomatoes
1 (8oz) pkg. of cream cheese, softened
8 oz Cheddar cheese, grated (2 cups)
1/2 cup of butter, softened
1/2 cup of chopped onion
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
1 teaspoon of salt
8 oz chopped Schermer pecans
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
fresh chopped tomatoes for garnish
* some additional mix-ins to consider: chiffonade of basil, chopped chives, substitute spring onion for regular onion
In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cheeses, butter, onion, garlic, salt and cayenne. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Spoon onto a larger piece of wax paper. Roll with wax paper to form a log shape. Place in freezer 1 hour or until firm. Remove wax paper and smooth log shape. Cover with chopped pecans and garnish with bits of fresh tomato. Note: you can roast the pecans for an even nuttier flavor. Serve with crackers.
Lee Epting, a true Southern gentleman and possibly one of the South's finest entertainers, passed along Epting Events' recipe for their signature red velvet cupcakes with pecans. We consider ourselves quite lucky to be able to share it with you.
