Hummus

Source: Noteworthy: A Collection of Recipes from the Ravinia Festival

Why I Like It: It’s healthy. I love garlic and lemon. It goes great with my favorite cracker, Triscuits. So what more can I ask for?

Ingredients:
15 3/4 ounces canned garbanzo beans, drained (also called chick peas)
2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
3/4 cup sesame or tahini paste (Note: I found it in the organic / health food section of the grocery and not with Oriental foods like I expected.)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
pita bread, sliced onto 1 1/2-inch strips

Directions:
In food processor or blender combine beans, lemon juice, sesame or tahini paste, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth. Add olive oil. Process until smooth.

Transfer to serving bowl. Sprinkle with parsley and paprika. Place bowl in center of large plate and surround with pieces of pita bread for dipping.

May also be served with sliced fresh vegetables.