Hummus can be found in most every grocery store now in the deli section.  There are many varieties.  If you haven't tried this wonderful spread that is a traditional Middle Eastern food, pick some up today.  It is a very healthful alternative to most other spreads and dips.  To make it at home, follow the basic recipe that follows and then make your own variations.

• 2 - 15 oz. cans of drained garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (fresh is best, but bottled will work okay)
• 2 - 3 cloves of fresh garlic
• 3 Tbsp. Tahini (ground sesame seeds - found in all health food stores or in the health food section of your grocery store)
• 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• dash of salt

Directions:

• Put all ingredients in your food processor or blender.  Process until smooth, scraping down sides if necessary.

Many variations can be made on the basic recipe.  After the garbanzos are smooth, use a wooden spoon to mix in chopped chives, chopped sweet or roasted red peppers, or chopped spinach.  Be creative.

I use hummus as a spread on all of my sandwiches, on bagels in place of cream cheese, on baked potatoes instead of butter or margarine, as a dip with vegetables, and even instead of mayo when making tuna salad.   The possibilities are endless.  Sometimes I even just eat it with a spoon! :-)