Hommus (Chick Pea Dip)

Ingredients:

1 19 oz can of chick peas (garbanzo beans)

1 clove of garlic, mashed (through a garlic press)

½ teaspoon salt

4 tbsp. of sesame seed paste (tahina)

¼ cup of fresh lemon juice (2 lemons)

¼ cup water (the chick pea can juice can also be used)

1 tsp. Paprika

1 tbsp. Parsely, chopped

1 tbsp. olive oil (optional)

2 tbsp. pine nuts, lightly browned (optional)

Directions:

1. Drain and rinse chick peas and place in blender or food processor

2. Add mashed garlic, sesame seed paste, lemon juice, and salt.

3. Start blender / food processor and water (chick pea juice) until smooth.

4. Place in a serving bowl and create a uniform indentation using a large spoon and turning the bowl.

5. (Optional) Pour olive oil over top and tilt bowl to cover surface uniformly. Garnish with black, pitted olives, parsley and/or pine nuts.