20 Best Fava Bean Recipes

When you hear the word beans, garbanzo and black beans probably come to mind first. And yeah, they’re definitely delicious! But let’s not forget about the quiet underdog of the bean world–fava beans.

They might not get as much attention, but they’re quietly stealing the spotlight with their unique flavor and versatility.

1.Grilled Fava Beans with Mint, Lemon Zest & Sumac

Fire up the grill and gather your crew–this recipe is a must-try for everyone. Whole fava beans are grilled to perfection, getting a nice smoky char that adds depth to their natural flavor.

Then, they’re drizzled with a zesty garlicky citrus dressing that brings everything to life. Finish it off by sprinkling fresh herbs and a pinch of Aleppo pepper for that extra touch of flavor.

It’s a simple yet vibrant dish that’s perfect for any gathering.

2.Fava Beans Risotto

Dinner plans? Look no further! Start by cooking some rice, then get your fava beans ready and fry up some ham until it’s crispy perfection.

Before you know it, you’ll be sitting down to a creamy, cheesy risotto that’s nothing short of divine. It’s the perfect cozy dinner solution!

3.Pea, Asparagus, and Fava Bean Salad

Here’s a spring salad that’s perfect for pairing with hearty, farm-to-table dishes. If you’ve got the time, grilling the asparagus and fava beans takes this salad to the next level.

The smoky flavor from the grill adds a whole new dimension to the dish that’s just amazing. Give it a try and see how that extra step can elevate your springtime meals!

4.Rice Salad with Fresh Fava Beans and Pistachios

Looking for a salad that’s more than just a light bite? This hearty creation, inspired by the culinary genius of Yotam Ottolenghi, is here to hit the spot.

The base is a trio of wild rice, basmati rice, and fava beans, making it super satisfying and filling.

To keep things fresh and vibrant, it’s topped with a handful of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for that perfect zing.

Finally, roasted pistachios add a delightful crunch, tying all the earthy flavors together in one delicious bowl.

5.Solterito (An Easy Peruvian Salad)

Looking for a fresh twist on salad? Meet solterito, a vibrant dish hailing from southern Peru. This Peruvian salad comes in many forms, but this fresh and spicy version truly stands out.

Packed with crisp fava beans, juicy tomatoes, and crumbly queso fresco, it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The real star of the show?

The rocoto chile paste, adding just the right spicy kick to bring everything together. It’s a lively mix that will keep you coming back for more!

6.Pasta with Fava Beans and Pancetta (Fave in Porchetta)

Shake up your pasta game with this fresh, vibrant dish! Creamy fava beans and crispy pancetta come together in perfect harmony.

The pancetta adds a rich, savory note, while the fava beans bring a touch of sweetness. Cooking them in white wine ties everything together, creating a flavor profile that’s both elegant and easygoing.

It’s a lighter take on pasta that still feels hearty and satisfying. Give it a try for a meal that’s as delicious as it is refreshing!

7.Fava Beans and Bacon Salad

Bacon lovers, we’ve got the salad for you! The creamy goodness of fava beans and the salty crunch of bacon come together in perfect harmony.

Add in some fresh bell peppers for a burst of color and a tangy splash of apple cider vinegar, and you’ve got a dish that’s as healthy as it is satisfying.

So go ahead, enjoy that bacon–this salad makes it a whole lot easier to savor every bite!

8.Fava Bean Puree

This clean-tasting puree is a breeze to enjoy in so many ways. Spread it on toast with fresh cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple yet satisfying snack.

Or, if you’re cutting back on bread, try it on sweet potato toast for a delicious twist.

It’s also a fantastic option for a club snack or appetizer–just serve it with veggies and crackers for dipping. Perfect for gatherings, it’s an easy and tasty way to keep your guests happy.

Get creative and enjoy!

9.Flatbread with Fava Beans, Cucumbers, and Burrata

You can’t go wrong with fresh burrata and flatbread–they’re a match made in heaven! Add some creamy fava beans and crisp Persian cucumbers to the mix, and you’ve got a dish that’s pure garden-to-table perfection.

Craving pizza but want something lighter? This is your answer. It’s loaded with fresh, vibrant flavors. Think of it as a ‘green goddess’ kind of vibe–healthy, fresh, and totally delicious. Like a little heat?

Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil, and you’re golden. It’s a fresh, vibrant meal that’s as easy as it is impressive!

10.Fava Beans with Tomatoes

When the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting tomato dish to cozy up with. This fava bean and tomato skillet is a perfect example–simple, hearty, and full of flavor.

Sauté onions, fava beans, and tomatoes in a skillet for a dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

It’s minimal effort but maximum comfort, especially when paired with a crusty sourdough baguette for dipping into the juicy tomatoes. A cozy, satisfying meal that feels just right for chilly days.

11.Bruschetta with Goat Cheese and Mashed Fava Beans

This spring-inspired appetizer is perfect for your next gathering. Creamy goat cheese and a vibrant fava bean mixture sit atop crispy crostini for a delightful bite.

The subtle tang of Parmesan and the freshness of parsley add just the right touches. No parsley on hand? Mint, dill, or basil would also shine in its place.

12.Moroccan Dried Fava Bean Dip or Soup – Bessara (Bissara)

Bess is a fava bean dish that’s part soup, part dip–whatever you like! It’s super creamy and hearty, thanks to fava beans that are pureed and simmered to perfection.

This dish is packed with flavor, featuring smoky paprika, garlic, and a hint of cumin.

To give it an extra boost, top it with a sprinkle of harissa and a drizzle of quality olive oil for that authentic touch.

Serve it with pita or veggies, and you’ve got a deliciously satisfying meal. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it’s totally versatile.

13.Foul Mudammas (Egyptian Fava Beans)

If you’re new to Egyptian cuisine, foul mudammas is a must-try dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.

This traditional recipe features creamy mashed fava beans seasoned with cumin, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon for a tangy twist.

To add some freshness and crunch, it’s topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh parsley, and peppers. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for exploring the bold flavors of Egyptian food.

14.Fava Bean, Radish, and Corn Salad

Looking for the perfect side to go with your roasted chicken? This recipe is here to save the day!

With its vibrant mix of fava beans, corn, and radishes, it’s as colorful as it is delicious. The best part? It’s super easy to put together.

Sure, shucking fava beans can be a bit of a chore, but skip that step by grabbing them pre-shucked, and you’re just minutes away from a fresh, tasty side dish that’s sure to impress!

15.Sauteed Fava Beans with Garlic Green Onions and Basil

Looking for a fresh and easy spring side dish? Sautéed fava beans are the perfect addition to any meal. This dish shines with seasonal ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for springtime eating.

For the best texture, shell the beans before giving them a quick blanch. It’s a simple step that makes all the difference!

16.Spring Vegetable Salad with Buttermilk Poppy Seed Dressing

Looking for a fresh salad to show off your farmer’s market finds? This recipe is here to help!

Imagine a vibrant mix of crisp snap peas, peppery watercress, and arugula, all coming together in perfect harmony. To add some extra oomph, we throw in fava beans for a boost of plant-based protein.

And the icing on the cake? A creamy Greek yogurt poppy seed dressing that ties everything together. If you’re cool with dairy, give it a try–it’s the perfect finishing touch to this fresh, healthy salad!

17.Asparagus and Fava Bean Quinoa Salad

Ready to elevate your quinoa game? This recipe is packed with fresh spring veggies like asparagus, peas, and fava beans. But here’s the kicker–adding prosciutto and Parmesan cheese takes it to the next level.

Crispy, salty, and bursting with flavor, this quinoa bowl isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience!

18.Mexican Fava Bean Soup (Sopa de Habas)

Ready for a soup that’s simple yet packed with flavor? This Mexican soup is a humble, hearty delight that’s anything but ordinary.

The star of the show here is the recado–a flavorful paste that’s a staple in Mexican cooking. Made with garlic, onion, and tomato, this recado adds depth and warmth to the soup.

To take it up a notch, we’re adding saffron and cumin for an extra layer of aroma and spice. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug, and the best part?

It’s easy to whip up whenever you’re in the mood for something cozy and satisfying.

19.Fresh Fava Bean and Parmesan Salad

Whether you’re looking for a fresh lunch or a light dinner, it’s always great to have a go-to salad that keeps things exciting.

If you’re like me and love mixing things up, this one deserves a spot on your list.

Blanching fava beans brings out their natural sweetness, and they’re perfectly seasoned with lemon, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

To take it up a notch, we sprinkle on some shaved Parmesan cheese for a touch of salty, creamy goodness. It’s simple, flavorful, and ready to become your new everyday favorite!

20.Turkish Fava Bean Puree with Dill

Looking for a dip that’s as versatile as it is delicious? Meet this Turkish fava bean puree–it’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor!

Whether you’re spreading it on crusty bread, layering it in a sandwich, or using it as a dip for veggies, this puree is your new go-to.

Drizzle it over grilled chicken for a flavorful twist, or opt for roasted tofu if you’re keeping things plant-based–either way, it’s a total game-changer!