Warm Italiano Spread

This is one of my new favorite appetizers! I had a small crock (about 6" by 4") that I put the cream cheese in and spread it to the edges. I didn't bake it - just put it in the microwave. It was a big hit! I will definitely make it again!

This is excellent as spread on pita bread or cooked and cooled crescent roll dough as a base for a cold summer pizza, too. All you do is just combine the softened cream cheese and pesto and spread on which ever dough you choose, then proceed with your choice of toppings.

Mmmm, Mmmm, Good! I make a similar dip with salsa, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese and it's always a huge hit so I knew this one would be amazing! I made some homemade pita chips coated with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt, ground black pepper, onion/garlic powder, & parmesan cheese to go with ours and it was delish! For those of you who are having trouble with the amount of pesto versus the amount of cream cheese, I have a solution for you. The dip that I make that is similar to this I let my cream cheese soften, then I take a round baking dish lined with foil, put the block in the middle, and spread it around the pan by smashing it with a rubber spatula. Spread your topping on and cover with the cheese and each bite has the same amount of cream cheese and topping. Hope this helps!! :)