Hummus

Makes 2 cups spread or dip

I've been on the lookout for the perfect hummus recipe for over ten years, and this is one of the best I've found.

Place the following in your food processor or blender:

1 can chick-peas, drained (15 ounces, or about 2 cups)

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup tahini

1/4 cup water

2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

2-3 garlic cloves, peeled

1 teaspoon salt

3 drops hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco) (optional)

Puree until smooth, 2-3 minutes.

Serve as vegetable dip or as a topping for high-fiber crackers or in whole-wheat pita.

FYI: Tahini is pureed sesame seeds. You may find it near the peanut butter in your grocery store or in the health food aisle.