Hummus: Quick, Tasty and Healthy Recipe

I was once afraid of Hummus. I know, I hate to admit it, but Hummus just sounded weird to me. The thought of eating a bunch of mashed up garbanzo beans was not exactly appealing, until.... I had some on some veggies, just to make a friend happy. She was excited, because it was something I could eat that was gluten and dairy free. WOW, did that change my view of Hummus, real quick. She had made this incredible Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. One word. Yummo! Since then, I have experimented and made a few discoveries myself. Go ahead, try it...you WILL like it.

Basic Hummus Recipe

1- 15oz can of garbanzo beans or chick peas - rinsed and drained
1/3 cup of Tahini (sesame seed paste)
1/4 cup of Lemon Juice (I sometimes will make this with half lemon, half lime)
2 Tbls. Olive Oil
2 cloves Garlic (smashed)
1/8 cup of water
dash of salt

Put all ingredients in a food processor and whirl away until it becomes a smooth creamy consistency. Keep refrigerated. Keeps for about 2-3 days.

Now if you want to get all fancy, here are some variations to try with the above recipe:

1/2 cup roasted red peppers or
2/3 cup drained black olives or
1/4 teas cayanne pepper or
1/4 teas. cumin or
cilantro or
parsley

Whatever you add, it will be delicious. Enjoy with Veggies, Pita Chips, Crackers or just about anything.