Chickpea & Black Olive Spread

Tired of dips and spreads filled with cheese, sour cream, mayonaise, or even all three?  Try Chickpea & Black Olive Spread for a high protein, healthy alternative.  Flavorful and satisfying this spread is a nice alternative to typical spreads and dips.  Good warm or cold, it is a perfect fall dish that is great for any get-together.

1 14 oz. can chickpeas (garbonzo beans)

1 1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/4 cup diced black olives

1/4 cup diced tomato

2 tablespoon miced green onions

Rinse beans.  Mash so no whole beans are remaining.  Add oil and lemon juice.  Stir in spices and zest.  Fold in onions, tomatoes, and black olives. Reserve a tablespoon of black olives for garnish. Serve with your favorite bread or crackers.  This recipe is easy to double.  To serve warm, cover and heat in microwave.

My husband contributed the wonderful bread in the photo.  His lite rye is amazing. Simply amazing!