Chunky Cranberry Spread

Ingredients:
One (8-ounce) package low-fat cream cheese
1-2 tablespoons low-fat milk*
1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped blanched almonds or other nut
1/2 teaspoon orange zest, preferably fresh

Directions:
Place cheese in a medium bowl and allow to soften at room temperature. Mash and work with a fork until texture is light enough to combine easily with other ingredients.

*Using sour cream for the carrot spread or milk for the cranberry version, gradually add just enough liquid so cheese becomes soft and easy to spread.

Mix in remaining ingredients for the spread of choice. Cover and refrigerate up to two days ahead or let stand at room temperature one hour before serving to allow flavors to blend and mellow.

Spread on slices of a whole-grain bread.

Nutrition information per tablespoon of cranberry spread:
Calories: 36
Total Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Sodium: 29mg
Carbohydrate: 3g
Protein: 1g
Dietary Fiber: <1g