herbed cheese spread

      Nothing is more appealing to me than a crusty, crunchy baguette, still warm from the oven. I would even go as far to say that I might choose bread over chocolate... depending on the situation.
     A few years ago, on a student tour of England and France, I contemplated selling my return ticket and staying in France... mainly for the bread!

     One of my favorite things to top the bread with is a softened, herb laden cheese. This spreadable cheese is sold in the store in a little tub for around $5. Some recognizable brand names are Boursin, Rondele and Alouette. You can make it for about a dollar, if you keep the herbs on hand, or in the yard. 

      It can be served at a dinner party as an appetizer. You can add whatever you like to change the flavors. For example: add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, black olives and marinated artichoke hearts as a heavier topping for toasted crostini. It can also be served at the table with fresh bread, instead of butter.

Directions:
Take an 8 oz. brick of low fat, cream cheese sometimes called Neufchatel, and blend with a mashed up clove of garlic and some fresh herbs, such as thyme, chopped rosemary and chives. Add a little kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. 

Spread it on and dive in! (Caution: has been known to become addicting.)