Lavender Cranberry Appetizer Spread
(Serves 10)

Lavender adds a surprise burst of flavor in this bright red cranberry spread. If lavender is unavailable, try adding rosemary in its place.

1 and 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/4 cup orange juice
1/2 teaspoon dried lavender
1/2 cup orange marmalade
3 tablespoons sugar
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1. In microwave-safe 1 quart-casserole, combine cranberries with orange juice and lavender

2. Microwave on Full Power 5-6 minutes, stirring once, until berries pop.

3. Add orange marmalade and sugar. Microwave another minute on Full Power.

4. Cool to room temperature. Chill.

5. Spread softened cream cheese in a circle on an 8-inch attractive plate.

6. Top cream cheese with cranberry mixture.

7. Spread on good quality crackers and enjoy.