Once, while wandering through a bustling farmer’s market in the heart of Rome, I stumbled upon the vibrant green of fresh fava beans. Their nutty aroma and bright color sparked an idea that transformed into this delightful dish. Inspired by the Mediterranean sun and the warmth of family gatherings, I created this recipe to celebrate the simplicity and richness of fava beans. This dish not only showcases the beans’ unique flavor but also brings together a medley of colors and textures that are sure to impress.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh fava beans, shelled
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Juice of 1 lemon
Optional: crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shelled fava beans and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn vibrant green. Drain the beans and plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel the outer skin off each bean to reveal the tender, bright green inside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped red onion, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, allowing the spices to bloom for an additional minute.
Gently fold in the blanched fava beans, seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through and coated in the aromatic oil.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh mint and crumbled feta cheese. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the mixture, giving it a final toss to ensure all the flavors meld beautifully.
Serve warm as a vibrant side dish or atop crusty bread for a delightful appetizer. This Fava Bean Delight is a testament to the beauty of fresh ingredients and the joy they can bring to gatherings with loved ones.
As I took my first bite of this dish, memories of that sunny market flooded back, and I knew I had captured a piece of Mediterranean magic. Enjoy this recipe as a celebration of flavor, culture, and the simple joys of cooking!