Serve this colorful and savory basil cheesecake with assorted crackers, vegetable slices and/or crostini.

Savory Basil Cheesecake

1 cup fine Italian bread crumbs
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup packed basil leaves
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 (15-ounce) carton Wisconsin Ricotta cheese (can substitute Wisconsin Mascarpone)
1/4 cup (2 ounces) Wisconsin Blue Cheese
1 1/2 cups (6 ounces) Wisconsin Parmesan Cheese, grated
1/2 cup finely chopped, toasted almonds, optional
Slivered almonds, optional
Fresh chives, optional

1. Combine crumbs and butter; press into bottom of lightly greased 8- or 9-inch springform pan. Chill.
2. Combine basil, garlic, and mayonnaise in a blender, blend until smooth and set aside. In mixing bowl, beat together the Wisconsin Ricotta, Blue and Parmesan cheeses until blended. Beat in basil mixture. Spread mixture over crust, pressing and smoothing top. Chill at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. When ready to serve, remove sides of pan and place cake on platter. Press chopped, toasted almonds onto sides of cheesecake, if desired.
4. To garnish top of cheesecake, make a "flower" with slivered almonds and chive stems, if desired.
5. Serve with assorted crackers, vegetable slices and/or crostini.

Makes 50 servings.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Inc.