Instructions

• Step 1: Add ice water to bowl; boil water in pot Fill a large mixing bowl with ice and water and set aside. Add water to a large pot and bring it to a boil on the stove over medium-high heat.
• Step 2: Boil beans 2-4 minutes; transfer to ice water Add the fava beans to the boiling water, and cook for two to four minutes, or until tender. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beans to the bowl of ice water, and let them cool completely.
• TIP: Buy the freshest fava beans in the spring, when they are young and tender.
• Step 3: Drain beans; remove outer shells Drain the beans in a colander and remove the outer shells. Place the shelled beans in a medium mixing bowl, and set aside.
• Step 4: Combine lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil Whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil in a small bowl to make a vinaigrette. Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 5: Mix beans and vinaigrette Pour the vinaigrette into the medium bowl with the beans, and mix well.
• TIP: Add other diced vegetables to the salad. Toss in cucumbers, onions, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
• Step 6: Add cheese and parsley Stir in the cheese and sprinkle the salad with fresh parsley. Serve with a sliced baguette or with roasted chicken for a tasty spring-time meal.
• FACT: China produces about 60 percent of the world's fava beans.

You Will Need

• 4 c. shucked fresh fava beans
• 1/4 c. lemon juice
• 2 tbsp. minced garlic
• 1/4 c. olive oil
• 1/4 lb. thinly shaved Manchego cheese
• Salt
• Pepper
• 2 tbsp. finely chopped flat leaf parsley
• Sliced baguette or with roasted chicken
• Diced cucumbers
• onions
• or corn (optional)