When I see jars of expensive bean dips for sale in the supermarket, I just shake my head. Nothing could be easier to make. Just open a can of beans and pour it into a blender along with some seasonings. Here are three recipes to get you started; you'll find it's easy to invent more.

Zippy Black Bean Dip 1 can black beans, drained 1 clove garlic Bottled hot sauce or chopped pickled jalapeno peppers, to taste 1 tablespoon mild vinegar (or to taste) 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon chili powder

Mash the ingredients together or puree in a blender. Serve with raw vegetable dippers.

Yield: About 2 cups

Hummus 1 can chick peas, drained 1 small onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 cup tomato sauce Juice of one lemon 1 teaspoon ground cumin Pinch cayenne 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional) Black pepper to taste

Puree all ingredients in a blender. Serve as a dip for raw vegetables.

Yield: about 2 cups

Tex-Mex Bean Dip 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup chopped green pepper 1/2 cup bouillon or a little olive oil 1 can kidney beans, drained juice of one lime 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro leaves 2 teaspoons mild chili powder pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

Heat the onions, peppers and the bouillon or oil in a small pot and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Combine with the remaining ingredients in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Serve with raw vegetable dippers of your choice.

Yield: About 2 cups