Dried beef has been used in American kitchens since pioneer days. Only in the last few decades was it used for appetizers like this intriguing combination of cream cheese, horseradish, and chives.

Ingredients:

8 ounces reduced fat soft cream cheese, at room temperature
1/4 cup reduced fat mayonnaise
1 teaspoon drained prepared horseradish
1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
2 ounces dried beef, finely chopped
1 tablespoon drained canned pimientos, chopped
1/2 cup finely chopped chives or green onion tops

Directions:

In a small bowl, with an electric mixer on High, beat the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and horseradish until creamy. Stir in Swiss cheese, dried beef, and pimientos. Shape the mixture into an 8 inch long log. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (good for 2 days).
Spread the chives on wax paper. Unwrap the log and carefully roll it in the chives, coating it completely. Rewrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until time to serve. Serve the cheese log with melba toast slices. Makes 14 servings.