Guacamole

I made this for a Super Bowl party a few weeks ago, and people loved it. I had never made guacamole before, but this recipe was awesome. I did substitute some asian chili sauce for the serrano chiles because that is what I had on hand, but it served the same purpose. I also omitted the tomatoes.

2 ripe avocados
1/2 red onion, minced
1-2 serrano chiles, stems and seeds removed, minced
2 T cilantro
1 T lemon or lime juice (I used fresh limes, which was wonderful)
1/2 tsp coarse salt
black pepper
1/2 tomato, chopped

Mash avocado in bowl. Add onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mash more. Add chili pepper to taste. Add tomatoes just before serving.

Hummus bi Tahini

This is a wonderful and simple recipe for hummus. I make it all the time, and it only takes about 5 minutes. Hummus is a great snack, and people always think it's amazing that you made it from scratch. Just as a note, I usually make half of this recipe, since one can of chickpeas = about 2 cups.

4 c drained canned chickpeas
1 clove garlic (I like to use roasted garlic - it's less bitter)
salt
1/2 c tahini (you can find this at many grocery stores and definitely in an import or specialty foods store)
1/4 c lemon juice
3 T olive oil

Rinse chickpeas, put in food processor with 1/4 c water and puree. Add tahini, lemon juice, salt, and garlic. Process again for a few minutes. Add olive oil and mix until smooth. Garnish with a dash of paprika or chopped parsley.

Here are a few good accompaniments for hummus:
- Triscuits
- Wasa light rye crispbread (I love this stuff)
- Baby carrots
- Pita bread
It's also delicious as a sandwich spread.