Pimento Cheese… The Pate of the South

Appetizers

There as many versions of pimento cheese as there are cooks who cook pimento cheese. In my circle of family and friends there are many different ideas of how pimento cheese should be prepared. Hence, the three different recipes in this book.

Ingredients

12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and at room temperature

3 /4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 /2 cup diced roasted red peppers

1 2/ cup mayonnaise

1 tsp creole seasoning

1 tsp cayenne and garlic sauce

1 tsp Worcestershire

1 tsp garlic powder

2 tsp dehydrated onion

Instructions

Using the paddle attachment of an electric mixer, combine all ingredients until well blended.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours allowing flavors to combine.

Recent Recipes

A Quiche for David

Quiche is French in origin, so this recipe is probably an abomination to some. My friend David Trigiani is a dual-citizen Italian is always taking a stand in the French food versus Italian food debate. Heavy whipping cream is a must, and never buy pre-shredded mozzarella. Grate your own. The same goes for parmesan cheese. Never, I repeat never buy that powdery substance in the green can. Invest in a good grater and you'll be a better cook for it. David lives in Jackson, Mississippi, but spends most of his holidays in Italy. He’s an excellent cook, though I have never eaten quiche in his home. Maybe this will inspire him, and I’ll get an invitation.

Orange Crepes with Sugared Cranberries

I prefer fruit over chocolate after a meal. Orange and cranberries are a perfect pairing, especially during the holidays. This is an excellent and easy dessert after a heavy meal. These can be served individually on small plates or in a casserole for a buffet.

Grilled Tripletail with Lump Crab and Chive Beurre Blanc

Tripletail has always been my favorite Gulf fish. The old-timers used to say, "If you can see a tripletail, you can catch a tripletail." They have this peculiar habit of floating near the surface around buoys, crab traps, and other floating objects, often lying on their sides and appearing almost lifeless. This behavior makes them easy to spot and, if you're quick with your cast, easy to hook. The meat is mild, white, and flaky—perfect for grilling. Pairing it with lump crab and a chive beurre blanc elevates this dish to something truly special.

RobertStJohn.com