Cook's Choice Cheese Ring

From the kitchen of Marsha S. McNamara, Raleigh

1lb. sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 C chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc.)
1 C mayonnaise (light or low-fat works fine)
1/2 onion grated finely
S alt and pepper to taste
C ayenne pepper
S trawberry preserves

Combine first five ingredients and stir until moist. Spread evenly in a mold or form a ring in a pretty bowl, creating a center hole by inserting a narrow cup. Sprinkle cheese mixture with cayenne pepper. Refrigerate. Unfold mold or pull cup out of center. Fill hole with good strawberry preserves right before serving. Spread cheese and a dollop of strawberry preserves over butter and/or wheat crackers and experience a tongue-pleasing delight.

Serves 16-20 people and can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead of time.