Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Ingredients

• 1 red bell pepper or 1 roasted red pepper (from jar)

• One 15-ounce can chickpeas

• 3 tablespoons tahini

• 4 basil leaves, plus for garnish

• 2 cloves garlic

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Pinch chili powder

• 3 to 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or the oil from the roasted red pepper jar, plus for garnish

• Salt and pepper

• Pita chips and veggies, for serving

Directions

Set the red pepper over a gas burner on high and rotate with tongs until blackened on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer the pepper to a bowl, cover with a dish towel, and set aside to steam for a couple of minutes. Rub the pepper with paper towels to remove the skin¿don't worry if bits of skin remain; they'll lend some charred flavor. Stem and seed the pepper, and then roughly chop. (If using a jarred pepper, simply stem, seed and chop.)

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, basil, garlic, lemon juice and chili powder. Process until combined. With the motor running, drizzle in oil and then slowly add water (about 1/4 cup) until the desired consistency is reached; bear in mind that the hummus will thicken in the refrigerator. Season with salt and pepper, and chill before serving to let the flavors meld.

Garnish the hummus with a basil sprig, and drizzle with olive oil. Serve with pita chips and veggies.

#hummus