Mediterranean Fava Bean and Zucchini Salad

Ingredients

Fava beans

2 cups, shelled

Zucchini

1 medium, sliced

Cherry tomatoes

1 cup, halved

Red onion

1 small, thinly sliced

Fresh mint

1/4 cup, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Extra virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons

Lemon juice

2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed

Salt

to taste

Black pepper

to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shelled fava beans and blanch for 2 minutes. Drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel off the outer skins of the beans, revealing the tender green beans inside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled fava beans, sliced zucchini, thinly sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh mint. Gently mix the ingredients to combine.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
4. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.