Almond pate with cream cheese

2 tbsp margarine
1 sm onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 tsp tarragon
1 cup blanched whole almonds
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp soy sauce
1 ds white pepper
2 tbsp cream cheese, optional

Garnish: slivered or finely chopped almonds, fresh parsley sprigs, pimiento strips, or sweet red pepper strips, optional
In a large skillet, melt margarine. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Saute until tender but not browned. Add tarragon, stir until it is softened.
Pour mixture into a bowl of food processor. Add remaining ingredients. Process until mixture is smooth. Add cheese if you prefer a more spreadable consistency. Spoon into a serving bowl. Top with garnish of your choice.
People who do not like ordinary pate seem to love this one. Vary the herbs and substitute the vegetables as you wish. Serve with water crackers, thick slices of crusty French bread, thin slices of whole wheat bread, or unsalted whole wheat crackers. May be frozen