Enhanced Fava Bean and Ricotta Toast

Ingredients

Fresh fava beans

2 cups, shelled

Ricotta cheese

1 cup

Lemon zest

1 tablespoon

Salt

1 teaspoon, divided

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon, divided

Olive oil

2 tablespoons, plus more for drizzling

Fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup, torn

Bread slices

4 slices, preferably sourdough or whole grain

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fava beans and cook for 2 minutes until tender.
2. Drain the fava beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool quickly. Once cool, peel off the outer skins of the beans to reveal the vibrant green interiors.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Preheat your oven or toaster oven and toast the bread slices until golden brown and slightly crispy.
5. Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture evenly on each toasted bread slice.
6. Top each slice with a generous amount of peeled fava beans, allowing their bright color to shine through.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the fava beans and finish with a sprinkle of the remaining salt and black pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, placing a few on top or alongside the toast for a pop of color.
9. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.