Fava, Mint & Pecorino Salad
This Fava, Mint & Pecorino Salad is a quintessential Italian no-cook dish, celebrating the fresh flavors of spring with minimal effort. It's an elegant and simple salad that highlights the natural sweetness of fava beans balanced by aromatic mint and salty Pecorino.
For 4 servings
Ensure your fava beans are 'double-podded,' meaning they have been removed from their large outer pods and then the tough, pale skin around each individual bean has also been peeled off. This step is crucial for a tender, enjoyable texture.
Gently wash the fresh mint leaves under cool water, then pat them thoroughly dry with a paper towel. Roughly chop the mint leaves and set aside.
Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, shave the Pecorino Romano cheese into thin, delicate curls or grate it finely, depending on your preference.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the double-podded fava beans and the chopped fresh mint leaves.
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil generously over the fava beans and mint. Add the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Gently toss all the ingredients together until the fava beans and mint are evenly coated with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Top with the shaved or grated Pecorino Romano cheese, distributing it evenly over the fava beans.
Serve immediately as a light appetizer, side dish, or part of a larger antipasto platter. For best flavor, consume within a few hours of preparation.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use the freshest fava beans possible; their sweetness diminishes quickly after harvesting. If fresh favas are unavailable, frozen double-podded fava beans can be blanched briefly and then shocked in ice water before using.
- 2The quality of your extra virgin olive oil makes a significant difference in this simple salad. Opt for a high-quality, fruity olive oil for the best flavor profile.
- 3Adjust the amount of Pecorino Romano to your taste; some prefer a bolder cheese flavor, while others like it more subtle. You can also use a mix of Pecorino and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- 4For a slightly different texture, you can lightly crush some of the fava beans with a fork before mixing, which helps release their creamy interior and meld with the dressing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Substitute or add other fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a different aromatic profile. A touch of marjoram can also be lovely.
Citrus BrightnessCitrus Brightness
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice along with the olive oil for an extra layer of tanginess and to brighten the overall flavor.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Toast a handful of pine nuts or slivered almonds and sprinkle them over the salad just before serving for added texture and a nutty depth.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Fava beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, helps maintain bowel health, and can contribute to feelings of fullness, supporting weight management.
Good Source of Protein
These legumes provide a significant amount of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function, making them a great option for vegetarians.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil, a key component, is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, which are known to support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Double-podding fava beans means removing them from their large, fuzzy outer pods, and then also peeling the tough, pale skin off each individual bean. This ensures the beans are tender and sweet, without any bitterness or chewiness from the skin.
