Humus and Falafel

1 package Fantastic Brand humus mix
2 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 1/2 cup warm water
2 tablespoons parsley, (optional)
1-2 garlic cloves, pressed (optional)

1 package Fantastic Brand Falafel Mix
1 cup water
vegetable oil for frying

To make the humus, place the contents of the humus mix in a bowl. Add the warm water, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir until well blended (using a spatula works best). Refrigerate for about one hour. For variety, you can add fresh chopped parsley and garlic to taste.

To make the Falafel, place the contents of the falafel mix in a large bowl, add water and stir well. Let stand 15 minutes to absorb the water. With your hands, shape the mix into 1/4 inch thick patties, each about the size of a silver dollar. Heat a generous amount of the vegetable oil on medium high heat. Please watch the oil, because it needs to be just at the temperature to fry, and no hotter (don't let the oil smoke). Fry the falafel patties until brown and crisp on the outside. You must watch them carefully so as not to overcook them or they will become dry inside. Use a spatula to move them around so they don't stick to the bottom of the pan. When the falafel patties become golden, drain the excess oil by placing them on a plate covered with paper towels.

Serve the falafel stuffed in a pita bread with the humus as a spread and your favorite vegetables or on sandwich bread. You can also make a Falafel Salad Plate by placing a few falafel patties on a bed of lettuce (red lettuce is very lovely contrast), adding sliced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and sliced seeded cucumber. Spoon the humus over the falafel, serve, and enjoy!