The Perfect Hummus

Hummus is a staple in our house. I feel like we always have some in the fridge. It is a quick snack and sometimes even a meal! We eat it as a dip, as a sandwich spread, heck, I've even used it as a pizza sauce! It's the perfect go-to belly filler.

Most people prefer to buy the store bought hummus, probably because of pure convenience. Next time you are at the store or if you even have some in the fridge, you'll notice that usually the second ingredient is water. If you've ever made hummus before or have read through homemade hummus recipes ... there is never water as an ingredient! Manufacturers  just want their hummus to go further without spending the money!

Alright, so there's a million hummus recipes out there! Well, there's a million recipes of everything out there, but back to hummus. There are so many variations too. I prefer my mine really smooth. I don't like the chunky beans and I don't want it to be too thick ... so that's what you're getting with this recipe. This is my standard hummus recipe. From here, you can take it anywhere! Eat it just like the recipe says or add some more ingredients to spice it your way. Here's a few of my favorites

• jalapenos for a spicy hummus
• kalamata olives
• fresh dill
• extra garlic
• sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts
• roasted red peppers (make sure you give them a good squeeze so your hummus isn't too runny)

Whatever you decide to do, don't pay for watered down hummus and try to make your hummus homemade ... because everything is better homemade!

Hummus

Makes 2 1/2 cups

2 cans garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
3/4 c olive oil
1/3 c fresh lemon juice
1 T tahini
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 t salt
1/4 t pepper
1/4 t paprika

Mix all ingredients in your food processor and blend until nice and smooth.