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1
Drain 3/4 of the liquid in the cans of beans. Put the beans, cheese, olive oil, garlic and lemon juice in a food processor. Puree.
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2
Add cayenne powder, paprika and ground black pepper as desired. Check for salt. Puree again. I usually add at least 1/4 teaspoon cayenne so that it has some kick to it.
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3
Remove and let the flavors marry for at least 6-8 hours or overnight in the fridge.
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4
Take the dip out of the fridge around 2 hours before serving. I usually spoon it into a pie plate or onto a large plate. Smooth the top of the hummus with the back of a spoon or use a knife.
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5
About 30 minutes before serving, garnish the hummus. First I spread prepared pesto sauce on top. You can spread it all over, in an outer circle pattern, spread it on half the hummus, or however you wish.
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6
Sprinkle at least 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts on top, or place in the center, or in whatever design you desire.
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7
Sliver around 1/4 of a roasted red bell pepper and arrange in a design of your own choosing.
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8
Arrange sliced olives around the edge of the plate.
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9
All of these garnishes are optional, but the pesto sauce and the toasted pine nuts taste especially good with this.
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10
Good served with pita chips or as a sandwich spread.