Raw Cashew Hummus - Bean-Free!

This "hummus" has no chick peas, making it great for a primal/paleo diet or anyone else who doesn't eat beans. There are 3 variations listed (four if you count the base recipe). It was posted on whole9life.com and created by the author of theclothesmakethegirl.blogspot.com

• Ready In: 3 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 4
• Yields: 2 cups

Ingredients

• 1  cup raw cashews
• 1⁄4 cup tahini
• 1⁄3 cup lemon juice
• 2  garlic cloves, crushed
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cumin
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne
• 25  canned  olives (optional)
• 1  roasted red pepper (optional)
• 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 6  sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
•  fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. Soak cashews for at least 3 hours.
2. Drain and rinse cashews a few times.
3. Place cashews and all remaining ingredients in a food processor.
4. Variations: add either the olives, OR red pepper and paprika, OR sun-dried tomatoes. Or, just leave those out for a simple plain "hummus.".
5. Puree in the food processor until well blended - it will be very thick.
6. Add water 1/4 cup at a time until desired texture.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.