One of my favorite meze is Hummus and Pita, I serve it often as an appetizer but for me it is almost all I need for a meal, maybe a few olives too.  Nearly every Friday during the summer I make a batch for that afternoon and evening at the beach, where I serve it as a snack with bagel chips. Hummus is wonderful, filling and very good for you. Kids usually love it and don't know they are eating something good for them. Hummus is available at many markets but if you really want some of the good stuff, make your own.

Ron's Hummus

1 Can Organic Garbanzo Beans
1 Clove of Garlic
1 Tablespoon fresh Parsley, stems and all
1 Teaspoon fresh Oregano
1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
1/2 Teaspoon freshly ground Black Pepper
1 Lemon, juiced
1/2 cup Tahini (Optional)
1/2 cup Olive Oil, maybe more

Place all ingredients but the olive oil in a food processor, remove pour lid on top, turn the processor on and begin to add the oil. Blend until the Hummus is smooth and creamy to your taste, using all the olive oil. If it is not creamy enough add a bit more olive oil and blend some more. Grab a piece of pita bread and taste, adjust seasonings to your liking. Place in a serving dish and drizzle a bit more olive oil and garnish with herbs or pine nuts, or olives.

Depending on what I have in the pantry I change the Hummus by adding optional other ingredients. Sometimes  I blend in well and others I pulse to chop the added ingredients  after making the Hummus so that I have a bit of chunky texture. Consider adding the following:

1/8 Cup Sun dried Tomatoes
1/4 Cup Green Olives, crack with side of a knife and remove pit
1/2 Feta Cheese, crumbled on top

Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas) are a good source protein and an excellent source of dietary fiber and are low in fat. Because of the high fiber content they make an excellent source of carbohydrates, especially for persons with insulin sensitivity or diabetes. Of course you should consult your medical pratitioner for health related issues. 

If you have never tried Hummus, consider it! Hummus is a wonderful appetizer or light meal, is good for you and easy to make.