Tahitian Cheese Logs
1 jar macadamia nuts, finely chopped
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 lb sharp Cheddar cheese, finely grated
3 ts grated orange rind
6 tb Grand Marnier liqueur
1.Place chopped nuts (reserve 1/4 c for final presentation) in a medium-size bowl and add the cheeses. Blend. Add the orange rind and Grand Marnier. Blend well.
2.Divide mixture in half and spoon each into a piece of plastic wrap. Fold wrap around mixture and form into logs. Refrigerate until firm or freeze for later use.
3.When ready to serve, remove plastic and roll logs in remaining nuts.
Fiesta Ball
1 1/2 c chopped pecans, toasted
1 envelope taco seasoning, divided
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tb green Tabasco sauce
1 tb diced jalapeno pepper
1 tb diced red onion
1 c seeded and diced red bell pepper
8 oz shredded Jack cheese
1/4 c nacho cheese chips, crushed
1.Toss toasted pecans with 2 tb of taco seasoning - set aside.
2.In a large bowl of an electric mixer, beat cream cheese, remaining taco seasoning and Tabasco sauce until smooth, about 2 minutes.
3.Add jalapeno, onion, bell pepper and cheese. Stir to combine. Using hands, shape cheese into a large ball.
4.Roll ball in nuts and then wrap in plastic wrap. Place cheese ball on a plate and refrigerate several hours until firm. Just before serving roll ball in crushed chips and serve.