I love any kind of hummus!  I love to dip fresh vegetables, or pitas in it!  Hummus is a healthy alternative to other dips, and black beans offer a lot of protein!  Next time you are in the mood for hummus, give this black bean hummus a try!  It is a nice change from traditional hummus that is usually made with garbanzo beans.

{Black Bean Hummus}

Serves 4

{hummus recipe}

ingredients
1 15 oz can [2 cups] of black beans, drained [preferably organic]
1/4 cup tahini [a ground sesame seed mixture, found locally at whole foods]
1 large garlic clove
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp fresh ground pepper
1 tbs fresh lemon or lime juice [depending on your preference]
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper [optional, if you like spicy]
1 tbs plain yogurt
1 tbs olive oil
1/4 tsp paprika
2 tbs water [may need more to reach desired consistency]

garnish
olive oil
paprika
1-2 tbs fresh cilantro , chopped

directions
place all ingredients except for garnish in a food processor and blend until smooth, adding more water if needed to reach a desired consistency.  taste for spices and adjust as needed.  place in a serving bowl and  sprinkle with cilantro.

serve with a warm pita, pita chips, or vegetables.