Warm Bean Salad with Dill & Lemon
This elegant Warm Bean Salad with Dill & Lemon is a light, vibrant side dish that comes together in minutes. Featuring tender fava beans, bright lemon, and fresh dill, it pairs beautifully with grilled fish, chicken, or as part of a mezze platter.
For 4 servings
If using fresh fava beans, shell them from their large pods. Bring a medium pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.
Add the shelled fava beans to the boiling water and blanch for 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Do not overcook.
Immediately transfer the blanched fava beans to an ice bath using a slotted spoon to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain thoroughly. Then, peel the tough outer skin from each fava bean (this is the 'double-podding' step). Discard the skins and set the bright green beans aside.
While the beans are blanching and cooling, prepare the other ingredients: finely chop the fresh dill, thinly slice the spring onions, and zest the entire lemon before juicing it.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the warm (or room temperature) double-podded fava beans, extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice.
Add the chopped fresh dill and thinly sliced spring onions to the bowl.
Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to your preference.
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined and the beans are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve the warm bean salad immediately as a vibrant side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To save time, use frozen shelled fava beans or edamame. Blanch them directly from frozen for 2-3 minutes, then proceed with the recipe (no need to double-pod edamame).
- 2For an extra layer of flavor, add a small clove of minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salad.
- 3This salad is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature. If making ahead, add the fresh herbs and lemon juice just before serving.
- 4Ensure your fava beans are tender but still have a slight bite; overcooked beans can become mushy and lose their vibrant color.
Adapt it for your goals.
Mediterranean Twist
Add 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese and a few halved cherry tomatoes for a more robust Mediterranean flavor profile.
Herbal BoostHerbal Boost
Incorporate other fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint alongside the dill for added freshness and complexity.
Protein PowerProtein Power
Turn it into a light main course by adding grilled shrimp, flaked salmon, or roasted chickpeas.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Fava beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Vitamin C Boost
Lemon provides a significant amount of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil contributes monounsaturated fats, known for their benefits in reducing bad cholesterol and supporting cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
You can prepare and double-pod the fava beans a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator. Just before serving, gently warm the beans (if desired), then combine with the olive oil, lemon, dill, and spring onions for the freshest taste.
