Garlic Spread

Velvety and versatile. I'm totally addicted to this spread- it's so simple and adds an interesting dimension to dishes when you use it. Although the ingredients look basic, the end result it truly greater than the sum of the parts, with no one flavor standing out. Trader Joe's sells a similar spread, but they use canola oil, so I wanted to make a healthier version. I used avocado oil since I've been trying to incorporate more of it in my diet, but you could use any neutral tasting oil. Note: This spread does not heat well since it is mostly oil.

Ingredients

1/2 cup garlic cloves, peeled

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/4 cup lemon juice

2 cups avocado oil

Directions

1.  Grind the garlic cloves and salt together in a food processor until the garlic is very finely chopped and becomes like a paste.  You may need to scrape down the sides a few times in between grinding.

2.  Add the lemon juice and blend until smooth.

3.  While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the avocado oil.  Continue to blend until the spread is light and creamy.  If needed, add salt and lemon according to your taste.

4.  Transfer to a glass container and store in the fridge until ready to use.