Chick Peas – 200 grams of dried chick peas (serves 2 people)

Lemon Juice – 1 lemon (freshly squeezed juice)

Garlic – 2 whole cloves

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons

Lebanese Bread

Salt – to taste

Black Pepper – to taste

Fresh Parsley – to garnish

Vegetables

Tomatoes – 3 medium tomatoes

Radishes – 6 radishes

Green Onion – 3 stalks

Mint – bunch

Olives – mix of green and black Lebanese olives

Chick Peas – For thousands of years, Chick Peas were grown in the Middle East.  Presently, the Chick Peas are widely cultivated and are a common ingredient in the Middle Eastern, Indian and African cuisine.  Chick Peas, also known as Garbanzo Beans, are a legume with a high protein content.  Fresh Chick Peas are green and have a soft shell.  Dried Chick Peas are readily available to buy at the supermarket or at the farmer’s market.  The featured recipe uses organic dried Chick Peas that need to be soaked in the water before cooking.  The cooked Chick Peas have a wonderful earthy flavor, firm yet soft texture and a bit of sweetness.  We combine the Chick Peas with the citrus sauce, which is a mixture of fresh garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper and salt to taste.  Chick Peas in citrus sauce are usually served with the Lebanese bread and fresh vegetables on the side.  This simple recipe delivers a burst of fresh flavors, colors and good nutrition.