CREAM CHEESE LOG WITH SWEET-AND-SPICY CRANBERRY RELISH

Steps:

• For the cranberry relish: Pulse the jalapeno in a food processor until finely chopped. Add the cranberries; pulse until finely chopped (but not ground). Transfer to a bowl and stir in the sugar, scallions, orange zest and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
• For the cream cheese log: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, shredded cheese, lime zest and 1/4 teaspoon salt with a wooden spoon or spatula until well blended. Mix in the cilantro. Spoon onto a large piece of plastic wrap and form into an even 1-inch-diameter log. Refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Right before serving, unwrap the log and transfer it to a serving plate. Drain the cranberry mixture well, then carefully spoon a thick layer of it onto the cheese log, pressing all over to cover. Clean any spills from the serving plate and serve immediately with crackers or toasted bread.