Weekday Meal Wednesday... White Bean Artichoke Spread

This isn't a meal, obviously, but it is a great, quick appetizer that can be made in a pinch from things either in your freezer or cupboard if you have guest coming over last minute.  Leftovers also make for a great snack, that is if you have leftovers.  It is also a great alternative (or accompaniment) to hummus and would make a good addition to a crostini bar at a party.

Ingredients:

• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped
• olive oil
• sprig of rosemary
• can of white kidney beans
• bag or can of artichoke hearts
• lemon, juiced
• salt and pepper to taste

1. Rough chop the garlic.  Cover in a small bowl with some olive oil.  Heat in microwave for 30 seconds to a minute.  This cuts back on the spiciness.  Personally I LOOOOVEEEE garlic and put it in raw, but others (aka the Boy) don't like the anti-vampire breath effect.
2. Peel the leaves off the rosemary sprig and mince.
3. Drain the beans, reserving the liquid. 
4. Add the beans, artichoke hearts, garlic with olive oil, and rosemary to the food processor. 
5. Start to blend and as needed add the lemon juice and extra olive oil to facilitate the puree process.
6. Once desired texture is reached, salt and pepper to taste.  
7. Serve with toasted crostini and olives!

What are your favorite easy entertaining recipes?  What do you put out if guests are coming over last minute?

~ Julie