A super simple recipe you can get on the table in minutes, this white bean version of hummus makes the perfect centerpiece of a vegetarian meal. Layered with aphrodisiac ingredients, it simplifies the whole concept of a romantic dinner for two.
2 15ouncecans cannellini or great northern beans or white kidney beans drained and rinsed
1/3cuptahini
1/4cupextra virgin olive oil
1/4cupfresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice regular lemon works too
1 - 2clovesgarlicroasted roasting is optional
1ouncefresh basil or to taste
1/2teaspooncumin OR oregano if possibleuse whole cumin seeds, toasted and ground OR use dried oregano
1teaspoonkosher salt or to taste
1/2teaspoonblack pepper or to taste
4tablespoonsice water
Optional Toppings
2tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
4tablespoonstoasted pine nuts
4teaspoonsza'atar
1/2teaspoonmarash pepper
1teaspoonsumac
Instructions
Pulse the white beans in the food processor 10 - 15 times until partially mashed.
Add tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, basil, cumin (or oregano), and salt and pepper to the food processor and continue to mix for 1 minute. Pour in ice water and continue mixing for an additional 3 - 5 minutes until smooth and creamy. Taste for seasoning and texture, adjust if necessary, and pulse to combine.
To serve, spread hummus in a serving bowl and top with olive oil, za'atar, marash pepper, sumac, and pine nuts to taste. Serve with fresh pita, pita chips, and/or vegetables for dipping.