Sundried Tomato Basil Spread

This is a yummy recipe to serve with crackers at a party or for an Italian cheese and crackers snack. 

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese

12-14 oz. softened sun-dried tomatoes

¼ c. grated parmesan cheese

1 clove garlic

4-5 basil leaves

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth.  Garnish with chopped basil leaves.  Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed in the microwave.

Basil Burgers with Sun-Dried Tomato Mayonnaise

This is easily the most delicious burger I've ever eaten. Do yourself a favor and enjoy these with your family tonight!

Prep: 25 min. Grill: 10 min.

Yield: 4 servings

1/4 c. sun-dried tomatoes (not packed in oil)

1 c. boiling water

1 c.  mayonnaise

2 t. Worcestershire sauce

1/4 c. fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped

2 t. Italian seasoning

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 t. pepper

1/4 t. salt

1 1/2 lbs.  lean ground beef

3/4 c. shredded mozzarella cheese

6 hamburger buns, split

Additional fresh basil leaves, optional

1. In a small bowl, combine tomatoes and water. Let stand for 5 minutes; drain. In a food processor, combine mayonnaise and tomatoes; cover and process until blended. Chill until serving.

1. In a large bowl, combine the Worcestershire sauce, basil, Italian seasoning, garlic, pepper and salt. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well. Shape into 8 thin patties. Place 3 T. cheese on four patties; top with remaining patties and press edges firmly to seal.

1. Moisten a paper towel with cooking oil; using long-handled tongs, lightly coat the grill rack. Grill burgers, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from the heat for 5-7 minutes on each side or until a meat thermometer reads 106° and juices run clear. Serve on toasted buns with mayonnaise mixture and additional basil if desired.