Almond Mushroom Pate

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Yields: 1 1/2 cs.

Ingredients

• 2  tablespoons margarine
• 1  clove garlic, minced
• 1⁄2 teaspoon tarragon
• 1  tablespoon lemon juice
• 1  dash white pepper
• 1  small onion, chopped (1/4 c)
• 1 1⁄2 cups  sliced mushrooms (, 4 oz)
• 1  cup  blanched whole  almonds (6 oz)
• 2  teaspoons soy sauce
• 2  tablespoons cream cheese

Directions

1. In a large skillet, melt margarine.
2. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms.
3. Saute until tender but not browned.
4. Add tarragon, stir until it is softened.
5. Pour mixture into a bowl of food processor.
6. Add remaining ingredients.
7. Process until mixture is smooth.
8. Add cheese if you prefer a more spreadable consistency.
9. Spoon into a serving bowl.
10. Top with garnish of your choice.
11. GARNISH: slivered or finely chopped almonds, fresh parsley sprigs, pimiento strips, or sweet red pepper strips, optional.
12. People who do not like ordinary pate seem to love this one.
13. Vary the herbs and substitute the vegetables as you wish.
14. Serve with water crackers, thick slices of crusty French bread, thin slices of whole wheat bread, or unsalted whole wheat crackers.
15. May be frozen.