GOUDA CHEESE FLOWER


1(7-oz.) round Gouda cheese with red wax coating
1(3-oz.) pkg. cream cheese.softened
2 tbsp. apricot preserves
1  teaspoon finely chopped onion
¼  cup finely chopped pecans
¼  cup finely chopped green bell pepper

FOOD PROCESSOR DIRECTIONS:
Using sharp knife, remove thin slice or wax coating from top of Gouda cheese. Carefully spoon out cheese, leaving wax coating intact to form a shell. If desired, cut decorative edge around opening with small sharp knife.
In food processor bowl, with metal blade, combine Gouda cheese, cream cheese, apricot preserves and onion; process until smooth. Stir in pecans and green pepper. Spoon half of mixture into wax shell, mounding in center. Cover remaining cheese mixture; refrigerate. Refill shell as needed. Serve cheese mixture with crackers. 1 ½ cups