How to Make Delicious Lemon Basil Hummus

Hummus is the best healthy alternative to chips and dip. As an appetizer, hummus is usually served with flatbread, such as pita. You can even toast your own pita bread that you purchase from the store. Hummus is very simple to prepare—here is how.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 16 oz. can of garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp. liquid from garbanzo bean can
• 1/2 cup basil leaves (5 large basil leaves)
• 1 clove garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp.)
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. pepper
• 1 tsp. soy
• Parsley for garnish

1. Drain and rinse the 16 oz. can of garbanzo beans. Make sure you save 1 tablespoon of the liquid from the can for use later in the recipe.

2. Combine all of ingredients in a blender or food processor. Add the tablespoon of liquid from the beans. Blend for 3 to 5 minutes on low until thoroughly mixed and smooth.

3. Place in a serving bowl and create a shallow well in the center of the hummus. If you like, add a small amount (1 to 2 tablespoons) of olive oil to the well. Garnish with parsley.

4. Serve with fresh, warm or toasted pita bread, or cover and refrigerate.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have time to prepare your own hummus, my favorite store-bought brand is Sabra.

[motherNN]

on 7/14/2009 Yum!!!!!!!!!

[bossypants]

on 6/27/2009 This variation on hummus sounds fabulous! A friend of mine just gave me her hummus recipe. Now I have two to try! What fun! Thanks!

[lrecker]

on 6/14/2009 Never had basil in hummus before (I think). This is a must-try.

[Quickstar]

on 5/26/2009 Lemon and Basil Hummus, What can I say, YUM! SOOOOO Good for you.

[xrayness]

on 5/24/2009 This recipe will give me energy to write 30 more articles and reach my goal of 500. I consider myself a top earner on eHow and energy is one main part of my success.