Il Cucinologo
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Pasta with Fava Beans and Peas

17/11/2023

Pasta with fava beans and peas is a fresh and light spring dish that celebrates the delicate flavors of seasonal vegetables. Here’s how to prepare it with an Italian touch.

Ingredients

  • 320 g of pasta (penne, farfalle or the shape you prefer)
  • 200 g of fresh shelled fava beans
  • 200 g of fresh or frozen peas
  • 1 small onion
  • 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • A pinch of chili pepper (optional)
  • Pasta cooking water to taste
  • Grated Parmesan or pecorino to taste (optional)
  • A bunch of fresh mint (optional)

Preparation

  1. Start by cleaning the fava beans by removing the outer skin if they are large; if they are small and tender, you can leave them whole. If using fresh peas, shell them as well.

  2. Prepare the base for the sauce by finely chopping the onion and sautéing it in a pan with extra virgin olive oil. If you like, add a pinch of chili pepper to give a spicy note to the dish.

  3. Add the fava beans and peas, season with salt and cook for about 10-15 minutes over medium-low heat, adding a little water from time to time to prevent them from drying out too much.

  4. While the sauce is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta al dente following the instructions on the package. Remember to reserve some cooking water before draining the pasta.

  5. Drain the al dente pasta and transfer it to the pan with the fava bean and pea sauce. If necessary, add a little cooking water to create a light cream that coats the pasta.

  6. Sauté the pasta in the pan for a few minutes to let it absorb the flavors well.

  7. Off the heat, if desired, add grated cheese and a bunch of chopped fresh mint for a touch of freshness.

  8. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Fun Facts

Fresh fava beans are widely used in Mediterranean cuisine, especially in Italy. They are rich in proteins and fiber and give a sweet and light taste to dishes. Together with fresh peas, they create a perfect combination for spring and the first warm days.