Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful Crostini with Fava Beans and Ricotta Salata—a perfect harmony of fresh, vibrant flavors and rustic charm. This recipe features crispy baguette slices brushed with olive oil, topped with a creamy, garlicky fava bean mixture enhanced by lemon zest and fragrant mint. The crowning touch is a sprinkle of crumbled ricotta salata, adding a salty, tangy finish that pairs beautifully with the earthy beans. Quick and easy to prepare, these crostini make an elegant starter for spring gatherings or a chic addition to any party spread. Impress your guests with this simple yet sophisticated dish that's bursting with seasonal goodness!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices. Lay them on a baking sheet.
Brush each slice generously with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the sheet in the oven and toast the slices for 8-10 minutes, until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fava beans and blanch for 2-3 minutes. Drain the beans and transfer them to an ice bath to cool completely.
Once cooled, peel the tough outer skins from the fava beans, revealing the bright green inner beans. Discard the skins.
In a small pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the peeled fava beans, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, smashing the beans slightly with the back of a spoon.
Transfer the fava bean mixture to a bowl and stir in the lemon zest and chopped mint.
To assemble, top each crostini slice with a spoonful of the fava bean mixture, followed by a sprinkle of ricotta salata.
Garnish with additional mint leaves or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
2484 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 121.2 g | 155% | |
| Saturated Fat | 51.4 g | 257% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 214 mg | 71% | |
| Sodium | 5798 mg | 252% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 243.0 g | 88% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.2 g | 108% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.9 g | ||
| Protein | 117.3 g | 235% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2055 mg | 158% | |
| Iron | 20.2 mg | 112% | |
| Potassium | 2025 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.