Maghreb Hummus and Olive Salad

Hummus and Olive Salad

1 large (28 ounces) can garbanzo beans, drained
2 cloves garlic, crushed

Zest 1 lemon, and juice of 1/2 - 1 lemon
1 - 2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 cup tahini (ground sesame paste)
1/2 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander

Pinch red pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 - 1/3 cup mild extra virgin olive oil

Warm water, as needed

Olive Salad
20-30 mixed green and black olives (with pits)

1-2 tablespoons minced roasted red peppers
1-2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley

1/3 – 1/2 cup robust extra virgin olive oil

Ground paprika for decoration

Ground cumin for decoration

Combine the chickpeas, garlic, zest, lemon juice, tahini, cumin, coriander, red pepper flakes, and salt in a food processor and pulse. Gradually add some warm water a little at a time, scraping the sides of processor. Pulse again. Add the oil. Keep blending until you get a smooth consistency.  Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt, spices, or lemon juice as needed. (Note: mix the tahini in jar well before using)

Place hummus in a medium-sized round plate or bowl, and create a shallow well in the center to make room for the olive salad.  Run a small fork around the edges (rim) of the hummus to create ridges.  Drizzle a thread of olive oil on the ridges.

Place olives, roasted peppers and parsley in the well. Pour a generous amount of olive oil into it. Sprinkle and alternate pinches of paprika and cumin on ridges as a decoration for color.  Serve with pita, naan bread, or any flat bread of your choice.

olive bar

This chickpea hummus is a typical appetizer in the Maghreb and the Middle East. It is colorful, easy to make, and really flavorful.  I add olive in the middle so that I have two appetizers in one dish.  It is usually accompanied at a table with other vibrant appetizers, bread, and raw vegetables.