Pinto Bean and Zucchini Hummus

Among the "little foods" of the eastern Mediterranean meze tradition that form such a wonderful and varied source of inspiration for vegetarian dining in the summer, nothing beats hummus for versatility, convenience and protein. Zucchini lends a western Mediterranean flair to this spicy but rich and earthy hummus made from pinto beans instead of chickpeas, with yogurt along to add a pleasantly light refreshing tang.

Pinto Bean and Zucchini Hummus

1 cup dried pinto beans
5 or 6 sun-dried tomatoes
4 or 5 whole dried red chilies
1 small zucchini, chopped
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons whole fat yogurt
juice from one lemon
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt

Rinse the pinto beans and soak overnight in several inches of cold water with a little yogurt whey or lemon juice added. Drain the beans and add to a medium saucepan. Cover with several inches of fresh water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are soft. Drain.

Meanwhile, cover the sun-dried tomatoes and dried red chilies with hot water in a small bowl and soak for 20 minutes. Drain.

Combine the sun-dried tomatoes, chilies, zucchini, garlic, tahini, yogurt and lemon juice in a small bowl. In a food processor, blend with the beans, olive oil and salt until smooth. If necessary, process the mixture in batches. Serve with flatbreads, pitas, crackers or vegetables.

Makes approximately 3 cups of hummus.

Other hummus recipes from Lisa's Kitchen:
Olive Hummus
Spicy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Turkish Yogurt Hummus