Garlic-Dill Cream Cheese Bagel Spread

2 green onions, minced
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dill weed
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
dash black pepper
A few drops of milk or cream to thin, if desired
*Mince onion and add to cream cheese, working in with fork. Add garlic and spices to taste. Makes 1 cup.

Note: If you like the spreads even fluffier, before mixing in everything, warm the cream cheese a few seconds in the microwave, and whip it with beaters. Then add the rest, but not too much milk/cream on this one.

Sun-dried Tomato & Basil Spread: I also make a spread like the Schmear from Nathan's in San Francisco--just use the recipe with fresh basil instead of dill, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes instead of green onions. I also add a dash of cayenne to that one to kick it up a little.

Smoked Salmon Spread: Smoked salmon can be added to the garlic-dill spread above--I sometimes add a little grated onion to that one, or substitute sour cream for the milk or cream. This seems to be a favorite too.
Sheryl in AZ

http://www.nancyskitchen.com