This roasted red pepper flavored hummus is great as an appetizer served with cut-up warm pitas and vegetables, or it can be used as a spread on sandwiches.

Red Pepper Hummus

1 (16-ounce) can chickpeas, drained
2 tablespoons tahini
1/2 lemon
1 1/2 teaspoons italian herbs
3 garlic cloves
1 cup roasted peppers, drained
4 fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 lime, cut into wedges

1. In a KitchenAid food processor, combine the chickpeas (reserving about twelve for garnish), tahini, juice from the lemon, italian herbs, garlic, roasted peppers, basil, tomato paste, paprika, balsamic vinegar, hot sauce, salt, and olive oil.
2. Puree until the mixture is smooth.
3. Garnish with whole chickpeas and fresh lime juice and serve.

Makes about 3 cups.

Recipe and video provided courtesy of SummerKitchen.tv. Photograph property of CooksRecipes.com.