In a blender:
- add a 15 oz can of garbanzo beans (chick peas) (drained and rinsed)
- juice from 1 large or 2 small lemons (about 1/8 to 1/4 cup if using bottled)
- grated peel or zest from 1/2 lemon (keep a bit for garnish)
- 1/3 cup roasted tahini
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO in Rachael Ray's world :)
- 1-2 cloves of garlic
- a pinch of sea salt
While blending add 1/2 cup of water...a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is the consistency of creamy mashed potatoes. Add more water if it's too thick.
Kick it up a notch or change the flavor by considering these additions:
~ Try pickled garlic, some brands even offer seasoned cloves. I love using lemon dill flavored.
~ Use black beans instead of garbanzos.
~ Add flavor infused EVOO.
~ Garnish this taste treat with fresh parsley sprigs, toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds, lemon zest, chopped peanuts, or any of your favorites.
~ Some interesting varieties: Jalapeno & Lime, Thai Basil, and Spicy!
