B.F.F.'s...

There is a joy that overcomes you when your child finds his first best friend at school. It is such a pure friendship at age three. They can't even express what it is that they like about this person, they just do! It really is the sweetest thing. Now the icing on the cake is when you meet this best friend's parents and think the world of them too!

Today my son and I spent a couple hours at the zoo with said best friend and his wonderful mom. I packed some peanut butter and jellies for the boys and pita sandwiches for us moms. The pitas were stuffed with sliced cucumbers, Havarti cheese and a chick pea spread which is like hummus but without the tahini. The chick peas and cheese add tons of protein and their creaminess makes it very satisfying. The cucumbers bring a freshness and crunch to balance it all out. Our friends brought some healthy fruits and veggies to complete the meal. We had lunch at a shaded picnic table after the kids ran around like maniacs. Good friends, good food....it was a perfect morning!

Protein-packed Veggie Pitas

Whole wheat pitas
Chick pea spread
Havarti cheese slices
Cucumber slices

Slice a bit off the top of the pita and open them up. Spread a thick layer of the chick peas on one side. Top it off with a layer of the cucumbers and then a slice of cheese. That's it!

Chick Pea Spread

16 oz can of chick peas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp minced garlic
2 tbsp water
1/4 tsp salt

Put all of the ingredients in a food processor or mini chopper and blend until smooth. Add more a bit more water if it is too thick in consistency. Add more salt if you like.

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