This spicy appetizer looks complicated, but can be assembled earlier in the day and refrigerated until serving time.

Spicy Sausage Hummus with Toasted Pita Triangles

6 ounces spicy Italian sausage, cooked, crumbled and drained
1 (7-ounce) container hummus
1/2 cup sour cream
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons chopped oil-cured olives
1 (6-ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1/2 of a 7-ounce jar roasted red peppers, diced
4 green onions, chopped, including some green
2 tablespoons crumbled Feta cheese

4 6-inch pita breads

1. In medium bowl, stir together hummus, sour cream and cayenne pepper; spread evenly on a 10-inch serving plate. Sprinkle with remaining ingredients in this order: olives, artichoke, sausage, roasted pepper, onion and Feta.
2. Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Split pita breads in half horizontally; cut each round into six wedges. Place on ungreased cookie sheets.
4. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp. Serve with dip.

Makes 12 servings.

Quick-Serving Tip: Serve with crackers or bread sticks instead of pita triangles.

Southwestern Variation: Substitute mashed black or pinto beans for hummus, crushed chipotle chiles for cayenne, chorizo for Italian sausage, diced avocado for olives, queso anejo for Feta and halved cherry tomatoes for roasted peppers. Serve with tortilla chips.

Nutrition Facts:Calories 170 calories Protein 7 grams Fat 9 grams Sodium 420 milligrams Cholesterol 15 milligrams Saturated Fat 3 grams Carbohydrates 17 grams

Recipe provided courtesy of Pork: The Other White Meat.