Fava Bean Puree with Lemon and Garlic

Although fresh fava beans are generally considered a spring vegetable, they are available well into the summer months at farmers markets here in Michigan.  It’s true that they can be a bit tedious to shell and peel, but having kids around during the summer helps with that.  (Oh, you’ve got nothing to do?  No problem, I can fix that.  Here’s a big pile of favas to shell, if you’d please.)  In all seriousness though, I love when the kids join me in the kitchen.  It’s quality time spent together and my hope is that it will deepen their appreciation for our meals together.

This fava bean puree with lemon and garlic is a bright tasting spread which goes well with crackers or toast.  It makes a fresh summer hors d’oeurve or could even be a light lunch.  It stores well in the fridge for several days so it’s a great thing to keep on hand for a healthy snack.  Serve with sliced radishes for an extra crunch and don’t forget the flaky salt and freshly ground pepper to finish.

Fava Bean Puree with Lemon and Garlic

Ingredients

• 2 cups shelled fava beans, from about 2 1/2 pounds favas
• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• crackers or toast, sliced radishes, flaky salt, and freshly ground pepper for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook fava beans with their skins for 2 minutes. Drain the beans, reserving 1 cup cooking water. Immediately immerse the beans in a bowl of ice water. (This shocks them and helps to retain their beautiful green hue.) Remove the beans from their outer peels and cook them again in boiling water for another 2 minutes. Drain.
2. In the bowl of a food processor, combine the cooked favas, garlic, salt, lemon juice, olive oil, and 1/2 cup cooking water. Process until smooth. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper. Add more liquid 1-2 tablespoons at a time to reach desired consistency.
3. Serve on top of crackers or toast with sliced radishes, flaky salt, and freshly ground pepper.

Notes

adapted from A Boat, A Whale, and A Walrus