Rosalynn Carter’s “Plains Special” Cheese Ring
39th First Lady of the United States from 1977-1981 / Adapted from the First Ladies Cook Book, Parents' Magazine Press (1977 edition): This cheese appetizer is a savory, crowd-pleasing dish built from grated sharp cheddar, chopped toasted pecans, and onion. Serve with your favorite jam for a delicious sweet/savory combo!
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
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Yield: 1 ½ cups