Sesame Garlic Cheese Spread

I like to keep a container of this in my fridge during the holidays, when I inevitably have unexpected guests. It keeps for a week and is quick and easy to make. Adapted from a Sunset cookbook.

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Yields: 1 cup

Ingredients

• 1  teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1⁄2 cup ricotta cheese or 1⁄2 cup small curd cottage cheese
• 1  tablespoon  minced parsley
• 1  teaspoon  garlic salt
•  assorted raw  vegetables

Directions

1. In a small frying pan over medium heat, toast sesame seeds, shaking pan often, until golden (about 2 minutes); remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth; beat in ricotta, parsley, garlic salt and sesame seeds.
3. Cover and refrigerate for up to a week but before serving, let stand at room temperature until softened (about 30 minutes).
4. Mound in a small serving bowl and serve with veggies.