Serves 2 – 4

Ingredients:
• 2 cups garbanzo beans
• 2 small garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 medium lemon

Method:
1. Place beans in food processor. Add garlic, tahini, olives, olive oil, cayenne (if desired), white pepper, and basil leaves. Juice lemon, and add to mixture.
2. Process for 1 to 2 minutes, or until smooth. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Serve with carrot sticks, strips of red bell pepper, and pita or crackers for dipping.

Nutrition:
Per serving (2 tablespoons): Calories 100; Total Fat 3 g; Carbohydrate 12 g; Fiber 4 g; Protein 4 g; Sodium 285 mg

Simplified Tip:
Garbanzo beans (also known as chickpeas) aid in improving blood sugar levels and help fight cholesterol. They are also high in protein, making them a perfect addition to a vegetarian’s diet or one who would like to cut back on red meat.