Monster Mash Spread

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Monterey jack
    cheese with jalapeno peppers
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
Green Onion Curls (recipe follows, optional)
Assorted crackers

Line 8- or 9-inch round cake pan with aluminum foil. Spray with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

Combine cream cheese, Monterey jack cheese, bell pepper and chopped green onions in medium bowl; mix well. Spoon into prepared pan; press mixture evenly into pan. Cover; refrigerate 1 to 2 hours or overnight.

When ready to serve, invert pan onto large platter or serving tray; remove pan. Discard foil. Garnish with Green Onion Curls, if desired.

Serve with crackers.

Tip: Substitute shredded Cheddar cheese for Monterey jack cheese with jalapeno peppers. Drain 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chiles and stir into cheese mixture before spreading into prepared pan.

Green Onion Curls:

Makes several curls.

3 to 4 green onions (tops only)

Using scissors or small knife, cut each green onion lengthwise into long, narrow strips; place in bowl of ice water. Refrigerate until strips are curled, about 2 hours or overnight.