Adapted from the First Ladies Cook Book, Parents’ Magazine Press (1977 edition)
Welcome to the First Ladies Series, where we’re sharing recipes from the First Ladies Cookbook to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday.
Our 39th First Lady, Rosalynn Carter, came from humble beginnings in Plains, Georgia, and the recipes in this cookbook reflect that simplicity and warmth. From chicken supreme to eggplant casserole to peanut soup, these are unpretentious dishes, and this appetizer recipe is no exception.
The “Plains Special” Cheese Ring is a savory, crowd-pleasing appetizer built from grated sharp cheddar, chopped toasted pecans, and onion. Grating the onion — rather than chopping it — is a small but interesting technique that adds real depth and complexity to an otherwise simple dish. A little mayonnaise binds everything together, and a dash of black pepper and cayenne give it just enough kick.
Rosalynn suggests packing the mixture into a ring mold, but any mold or bowl will do. Refrigerate overnight until firm; then comes the nail-biting moment of unmolding. Don’t be shy about giving it a good whack!
A few pecan halves make a simple, pretty garnish. Serve with strawberry jam — or any jam you like — and crackers. The sweet and savory combination is really hard to beat.
Simple, delicious, and perfect for any gathering.
Want to learn more about Rosalynn’s remarkable legacy as First Lady? Check out the video below!
Rosalynn Carter’s “Plains Special” Cheese Ring
Ingredients
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese grated
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ small onion grated
- ½ cup finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
- Dash of cayenne pepper
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: Whole pecan halves for garnish
Instructions
- Mix the cheese, mayonnaise, and onion together.
- Stir in the nuts until well incorporated.
- Season with cayenne and black pepper to taste.
- Pack into a 2-cup ring mold or other mold; a bowl would work as well.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill overnight until firm.
- Unmold onto a serving plate. If needed, dip the mold briefly in hot water and run a knife around the edges.
- Decorate with whole pecan halves, if desired.
- Keep refrigerated until just before serving.
- Serve with strawberry preserves or plain, with crackers. If using a ring mold, Rosalynn suggested placing the preserves in the center of the ring.
Notes
Historical Sources: The First Ladies Cookbook, Parents’ Magazine Press (1977 edition) // Carter Center: Rosalynn Carter Tribute // Wikipedia: Rosalynn Carter // Obama White House Archives: Rosalynn Smith Carter // The White House Historical Association: Inauguration of Jimmy Carter
