CHEESE RING WITH APRICOT GLAZE

Ingredients

2 (8-ounce) packages sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
1 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
2 tablespoons chopped pimiento-stuffed olives
1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
1 cup apricot preserves
1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
Assorted crackers

Preparation

In a mixing bowl, combine cheeses, seasoned salt, garlic salt, olives and bell pepper. Using your hands, mix together well. Sprinkle pecans into a ring mold. Transfer cheese mixture to ring mold, pressing slightly into pecans. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight. To serve, run a knife around the edges of mold and invert onto platter. Combine preserves and red pepper in a microwave-safe bowl; heat on medium power for 1 minute, or until warm. Drizzle over cheese ring. Serve with crackers.