Can't Get Enough Hummus!

I have been a huge fan of hummus since my first introduction to this wonderful food way back when I took a trip to see my sister in the United Arab Emirates. I have done a lot of experimenting with different spices and flavors and have found my true favorite to date. This is a double recipe b/c I like to have a lot on hand.

4 cups prepared chick peas (you can use canned if you prefer, just rinse before using to remove excess sodium)

1 whole head of roasted garlic (cut top of head off, place garlic in tin foil, drizzle with olive oil, wrap tightly and bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or until garlic is soft. The cloves will be soft and pull right out of the skins)

1/2 cup diced kalamata olives

6 T. fresh squeezed lemon juice

Lemon Zest from 1 lemon

1/2 cup filtered water

6 T. Tahini

Olive Oil

1 jalapeno diced (seeded and veined to diminish heat)

Spices to taste can include cumin, red pepper flakes, paprika, cayenne pepper - i just sprinkle in until it tastes good!

Put all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. As it is blending, drizzle in some olive oil to enhance the flavors and consistency.

You can play with the amount of olives, garlic, lemon juice/zest and spices to make it according to your own taste.

I love to eat this on toast, sandwiches, crackers and veggies!