Lemony Fava Beans

Now that I have a reliable source of favas, I need to find ways to use them.  There aren't a whole lot of recipes out there.  They're mostly for ful medames, which I know how to make.  I saw recipes similar to what I'm making here using early spring peas.  That was what I had in mind.

Ok, I'm going to have to buy the frozen favas more often.  They were lacking in cooking instructions, so I put them on to simmer like they were frozen limas.  In five minutes, they were soft and cooked through.  I see why there are recipes out there turning them into guacamole or other spreads.

I pulled a leek from the garden to make this dish, and I did not know they make side pups if you let them grow too long.  I transplanted the babies.  If they survive, that's three more leeks.  I also have a round growing in my indoor seed-starting area.  Hard to believe I need to start my seeds for October transplants this month.

PS, the greens from the leeks are getting dehydrated as seasoning when I don't need them for the broth bag.  You don't need to throw the tough tops away.

2 Tb olive oil
*1 leek, white and light green parts only
*2 cloves garlic, minced
salt and white pepper to taste
one 14 oz bag frozen, double-peeled fava beans
*1/4 C chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
*juice and zest of one lemon
pasta or rice for serving

1.  To clean the leek, remove root and green ends.  Split down the middle.  Rinse between the layers to remove any dirt and/or bugs.  Shake off excess water.  Cut cleaned leek into 1/4" thick slices.

2.  Simmer favas in water to cover by one inch for five minutes.  Drain and set aside.

3.  Heat oil in a medium skillet or the saucepan.  Cook leeks and garlic until softened, then add favas.  Season with salt and white pepper.  Once heated, add lemon juice, zest, and herbs.  Continue to cook until the lemon comes to a boil, then remove from heat.

4.  If desired, garnish with more herbs, lemon wedges, or even some cheese.  Serve as a side, over pasta or rice, or chill as a salad protein.

Difficulty rating  :)