Chimichurri Dip

Here's a festive dip good enough for celebrations like New Year's. Richly flavored with cilantro, garlic, spices and lemon, it is a cousin to a Green Goddess dip. Serve with your favorite crackers and crudités.

Chimichurri:

palmful cilantro, chopped

palmful Italian parsley, chopped

2 cloves garlic, peeled and halved

dash crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 tsp cumin powder

1/4 tsp salt

2 Tbsp cup olive oil

1 Tbsp sherry vinegar (or other favorite)

1 Tbsp lemon juice

2 cups cottage cheese

about 2 Tbsp half-and-half (or light cream), as needed

Blend together the Chimichurri ingredients in a small food processor to a smooth sauce.  Add the cottage cheese and blend to a thick dip.  Thin with a dash of light cream if necessary, until you achieve the dipping consistency you desire. Transfer to a serving bowl.

Makes 2 cups.