* Dates and Cheese Spread *

1 cup fresh dates, finely chopped
1 cup cottage cheese (paneer)
1 cup hung curd
1/2 tsp finely chopped onion
1/2 to 1 tsp chopped green chillies
1/4 tsp prepared mustard
1 tsp roasted sesame seeds
Pinch of sugar

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and whip gently using
a hand blender. Chill and serve as a spread or dip.

* Basil Pesto *

1 cup fresh basil leaves
1 tbsp pine nuts
1/2 tbsp garlic paste
1/2 cup parmesan shavings
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt to taste

Mix together the basil, pine nuts, garlic paste and parmesan in a bowl. Blend
to a coarse puree with a hand blender, while adding the olive oil. Add salt and
mix well. Can be used as a sandwich spread, or as a dip.