Hummus is gooooood.

After eating a meat-free diet for over 5 years, I took it upon myself to find new sources of protein. I introduced myself to the beautiful chick pea (also known as the garbanzo bean). Chick peas are filled with protein, iron, fiber and they are low in fat and calories. They are delicious. Even more delicious - hummus. Hummus is a popular food from the Middle East, made of cooked chick peas, tahini, lemon and other delicious ingredients. I have played with several different varieties, and have grown to love this particular recipe the best:

• 1 1/2 cloves garlic (the more garlic the better)
• 1 (19 ounce) can garbanzo beans, 3 tbls the liquid reserved
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 teaspoon salt
• black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (to taste)

Drizzle 1 tbls of extra virgin olive oil over the bowl. Serve with warm pizza and/or fresh vegies. Enjoy. Lick the bowl. No one will judge you.