Fava Bean and Fresh Mint Spread with Local Crudité (sliced raw vegetables)

A simple, yet classy, appetizer or snack using refreshing seasonal produce. Fava beans require extra prep time, but the nutty taste and silky texture makes them worth the effort!

Makes about 2 cups

YOU NEED:

  • 2 lbs fresh young fava beans
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 – 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, plus more for garnish
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS

  1. Add beans to boiling water for 1-2 minutes until just softened.
    Drain and remove fava beans from pod and peel shell from
    each individual bean.
  2. Pulse beans with lemon juice and add olive oil slowly until
    texture is smooth.
  3. Blend in mint and salt until incorporated.
  4. Serve with chopped local spring vegetables (radishes nicely
    complement the spread) or toasted bread and garnish with
    remaining mint sprigs.