Appetizers · By James

Hummus — sun-dried tomato, roasted red pepper, or regular

The recipe here is based on one given to us by Marvin and Catherine Stanowich in the late 80s. Theirs was a basic hummus, to which one can add any number of combinations, like the sun-dried tomato or roasted red pepper versions included here. To do a basic hummus, simply take out the tomatoes or the red peppers — everything else remains the same. This has been a staple in our home throughout the years. To answer a question often asked: yes, the homemade hummus tastes noticeably better than any store-bought version I have been able to find. Any basic hummus can be easily dressed up by putting a generous dollop of your favorite salsa in the middle of a bowl of hummus (Sharon discovered this little treat when we were down in Mexico and could only get the store-bought hummus — the Mexican salsa turned it into a wonderful appie!). Beans of all sorts are great nutrition, and chickpeas are one of the best for protein and fiber. Enjoy!