2 1/2 cups sliced almonds
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup chopped celery
3 cloves garlic, minced
salt and pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Place almonds in a heavy plastic bag or bowl. In a small bowl, cut the almonds into 1/4 inch slices. Crush the garlic and lemon juice. Set aside.
In a small bowl, blend the Cheddar cheese and celery. Add 1/4 cup of the almonds, salt and pepper until spreadable. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl and add the remaining almonds.
Bake covered in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.