Hummus

I first discovered hummus years ago and have loved it ever since.  It wasn't until recently that I learned how to make it.  I was surprised at how simple it was.  Here are a couple easy and delicious hummus recipes sure to impress.

Basic Hummus

1-15oz can garbanzo beans
3 tbsp tahini*
1 clove garlic
juice from one small lemon
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
salt to taste

Drain the garbanzo beans, but save the juice.  Place the beans, tahini, garlic, salt and lemon in the food processor.  Puree, adding the garbanzo bean juice to thin and make smooth.  Slowly stream in the oil while still pureeing.  Add additional salt if needed.  Serve with pita bread, fresh veggies (carrots, celery, cucumbers), crackers, etc.
 *Tahini is basically sesame seed butter.  You can usually find it at Whole Foods, Sunflower Market, Sprouts, etc. or ethnic grocery stores.

Cilantro Jalapeno Hummus

 If you want to take the flavor up a notch (or two), try this variation:

Follow the hummus recipe above, but add one bunch of washed cilantro (I usually rip off the top of the bunch and toss it in - no chopping needed) and 1/2-1 jalapeno, seeded.  Puree as described above.