Fava Beans and Pancetta

A rustic Italian-inspired dish featuring creamy mashed fava beans topped with crispy pancetta, served on toasted country bread. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.

4 servings
23 min

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 ounces pancetta or unsmoked bacon, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups shelled and peeled fresh fava beans
  • to taste Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 8 slices country bread, toasted
  • 4 ounces pecorino cheese
  • shaved or grated (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    1. Heat half the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the pancetta and garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 5 minutes.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    2. Add the favas, season with the salt and pepper, and cook until the beans are tender, 6 to 8 minutes.

    8 min

  3. 3.

    3. Meanwhile, drizzle the remaining olive oil over the bread slices and toast in a 450°F oven for 5 to 6 minutes.

    6 min

  4. 4.

    4. With the back of a fork, mash the beans in the pan until the mixture is chunky.

    2 min

  5. 5.

    5. Spread the beans on the toasts and top with the pecorino, if desired.

    2 min

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