Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This fava bean pasta recipe is bursting with fresh spring flavors, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the vibrant green color alone makes it a feast for the eyes. This recipe combines the creamy texture of fava beans with the satisfying heartiness of pasta, creating a truly memorable dish. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 8 ounces pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup shelled fresh or frozen fava beans (if using frozen, thaw beforehand)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the Fava Beans: Add the fava beans to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly softened. If using fresh fava beans, you may want to blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the skillet for a smoother texture.
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Combine Pasta and Fava Beans: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the fava beans and garlic. Toss to combine.
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Create the Sauce: Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to create a light sauce. The pasta water helps to create a creamy consistency and bind the ingredients together.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Fava Bean Pasta:
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Fresh is Best: While frozen fava beans are a convenient option, fresh fava beans offer a superior flavor and texture. If using fresh, remember to shell and blanch them before cooking.
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Don't Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a perfect dish. It should be cooked through but still have a slight firmness to the bite.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You may want to add more lemon juice for extra brightness or more Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
Variations:
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Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta.
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Vegetarian Boost: Include some sauteed spinach or cherry tomatoes along with the fava beans for added nutrients and flavor.
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Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or crème fraîche for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This fava bean pasta recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are both healthy and delicious. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking adventures. Enjoy!