If you are getting together with friends on the first long week-end of the season you may want to kick off the summer with this simple dip. Make it up ahead of time and heat it when you are ready to party!

Bacon Cheddar Dip

Canadian cheddar and bacon in the same appetizer is a good combo to celebrate Canada’s 150th and your family and friends will love it.

1  pkg (8 oz)  light cream cheese, softened

1/2  cup mayonnaise

1/4  tsp thyme

1/8  tsp black pepper

1  cup shredded Cheddar cheese

3  green onions, chopped or 3 Tbsp chives, reserve some for topping

8  bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

Beat cream cheese until smooth and light.

Add mayonnaise, thyme and pepper and continue beating until smooth.

Stir in cheese, green onions and crumbled bacon.

Transfer to an 8 inch pie plate or 3 cup oven proof dish and sprinkle reserved green onions or chives.

Bake at 350 degrees for about15 minutes until bubbly and starting to brown around the edges.

Serve warm with crackers and raw vegetables.