Festive Torta Spread

Directions

1. 1
   Add salt, garlic, oregano, and hot sauce(1/4 tsp cayenne works too) to the softened cream cheese and mix very well.
2. 2
   **
3. 3
   Take a small (4 cup) ramekin or round casserole and line it with plastic wrap, leaving generous overhanging edges.
4. 4
   Layer 1/3 of the cream cheese mixture, then the pesto, another 1/3 of the cream cheese mixture, then the sun dried tomatoes (I use my oven roasted tomatoes), top with the remaining 1/3 cream cheese.
5. 5
   Cover with the plastic wrap, overhanging edges and press down very gently.
6. 6
   Refrigerate at least 12 24 hours.
7. 7
   Can be made 3-4 days ahead of time.
8. 8
   Un-mold onto serving plate.
9. 9
   Decorate the top as desireda fresh basil leaf, some reserved chopped tomatoes, roasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of paprika.
10. 10
    Serve with crackers or crostini.
11. 11
    **for a quick substitute, use an herbed cheese like Allouette3 tubs.