Fava Bean, Mint & Feta Pasta
This vibrant Fava Bean, Mint & Feta Pasta is a quick and refreshing dish, perfect for a spring weeknight meal. It combines the sweetness of fresh fava beans with salty feta and aromatic mint for a light yet satisfying experience.
For 3 servings
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
During the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta's cooking time, add the shelled fava beans to the boiling water with the pasta. This will blanch them perfectly.
While the pasta and fava beans cook, prepare your other ingredients: mince the garlic, chop the fresh mint, zest and juice the lemon, and crumble the feta cheese.
Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Then, drain the pasta and fava beans thoroughly.
In the same pot (or a large skillet), heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Return the drained pasta and fava beans to the pot with the garlic. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped mint, crumbled feta, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
Add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce and help the ingredients cling to the pasta. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, drizzled with a little extra virgin olive oil and garnished with a few extra mint leaves, if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcook the fava beans; they should remain slightly firm with a vibrant green color for the best texture and flavor.
- 2Always reserve pasta water! It's an emulsifier that helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a silky texture.
- 3For extra depth, toast a few pine nuts or slivered almonds and sprinkle them over the finished dish for a delightful crunch.
- 4Taste and adjust seasonings frequently. The saltiness of the feta can vary, so add salt incrementally.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-seared halloumi cheese for a more substantial meal.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Replace or complement mint with fresh dill, parsley, or basil for a different aromatic profile.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
Substitute feta with goat cheese for a creamier, tangier note, or shaved Parmesan for a saltier, umami kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Fava beans and pasta contribute to a high-fiber meal, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Good Source of Protein
Fava beans are a plant-based protein powerhouse, and feta cheese adds additional protein, supporting muscle health.
Packed with Vitamins & Minerals
Lemon provides Vitamin C, while fava beans offer folate and manganese, and mint is rich in antioxidants.
Frequently asked questions
For very young, tender fava beans, the inner skin can be left on. However, for larger or older beans, blanching them and then peeling the inner skin off after cooling slightly will result in a more tender and pleasant texture.
