The Perfect Homemade Hummus Recipe

Middle Eastern dips, such as hummus, once seemed exotic, but now they're familiar old friends. Tahini is readily available at health food stores and supermarkets.

Yields: 2 cups
Total Time: 15 min

Related:Dig In! 8 Healthy Recipes for Dips and Spreads

Ingredients:
- 4 clove(s) garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 large lemon
- 1 can(s) (15 to 19 ounces) garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoon(s) tahini
- 3 tablespoon(s) olive oil
- 2 tablespoon(s) water
- 1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
- 1/8 teaspoon(s) ground red pepper, cayenne
- 1/2 teaspoon(s) paprika
- 2 tablespoon(s) chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Pita bread wedges
- Olives

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Directions:
1. In 1-quart saucepan, heat 2 cups water to boiling over high heat. Add garlic and cook 3 minutes to blanch; drain.

2. From lemon, grate 1 teaspoon peel and squeeze 3 tablespoons juice. In food processor with knife blade attached, combine beans, tahini, garlic, lemon peel and juice, oil, water, salt, and ground red pepper. Puree until smooth. Transfer to platter; cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours. To serve, sprinkle with paprika and cilantro, if using. Serve with pita bread wedges and olives.

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Nutritional Information (based on one tablespoon): Calories 28; Total Fat 2g; Saturated Fat 0; Cholesterol 0; Sodium 54mg; Total Carbohydrate 2g; Protein 1g

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