Zesty/Peppery/Sweet-Blue Cheese and Date Spread -- or Balls!

1. 1

   Measure 1 1/2 cups pecans (or double that amount if making cheese balls) into an large iron skillet, toasting over medium heat, stirring constantly ~ remove from heat and finely chop!

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   (Or, preheat oven to 350 degrees ~ Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast 5 minutes.

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   ).

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   Set nuts aside; they will be added last!

5. 5

   In a mixing bowl, combine (by hand or using an electric mixer), cream cheese, blue cheese cheddar cheese, salt, lemon zest, and freshly grated black pepper until fluffy!

6. 6

   Stir in dates and 1 1/2 cups toasted pecans.

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   For easier handling, chill for an hour to firm up, if making into cheese balls.

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   Coat with additional toasted, chopped pecans.

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   Serve this zesty spread (or balls) chilled, or at room temperature, with apple slices, celery sticks.

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    tortilla chips, and/or crackers.

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    NOTE: Cooking time is the chill time, although I thought the flavor greatly improved after chilling overnight!

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    The recipe can easily be doubled to serve a larger number of people!

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.