Low Fat Greek Split Pea Spread Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup dried yellow split peas, rinsed

6 cloves garlic, crushed and peeled

3 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

-- plus more to taste

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

-- or parsley

1/4 cup chopped scallions

Method

1.In a large saucepan, combine split peas, garlic and water.

Bring to a boil, skimming off any froth.

Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes.

2.Uncover and simmer, stirring often, until mixture has cooked down to a thick puree, 10 to 20 minutes longer.

Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon salt.

Press plastic wrap on the surface and let cool.

3.Transfer pea mixture to a food processor.

Add lemon juice and oil; process until smooth.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Scrape into a bowl and stir in dill (or parsley).

(The spread will keep, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.)

Sprinkle with scallions and serve.

MAKES ABOUT 2 1/2 CUPS.

20 calories per tablespoon: 1 gram protein; 0 grams fat; 3 grams carbohydrate; 54 mg sodium; 0 mg cholesterol: 1 gram fiber.

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