Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients:

2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon coarse black pepper
1 cup toasted pine nuts, coarsely chopped
Crackers

In the bowl of a food processor, mix together the cream cheese, pesto, and Parmesan. Pulse until combined. Line a small round bowl with plastic wrap, and scoop out the cheese mixture into the bowl. Pack down firmly, and wrap into a ball. Refrigerate for 3 hours. Remove the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll in the pine nuts, making sure to cover all sides. Refrigerate until ready to use. Serve at room temperature with crackers or vegetables.