Fresh Fava Bean Pasta with Pecorino and Ricotta Recipe from Sicily

Fresh Fava Bean Pasta with Pecorino and Ricotta is a vibrant, authentic Sicilian dish that brings together the tender sweetness of fava beans with the rich, creamy flavors of Pecorino and Ricotta cheeses. This simple yet flavorful pasta celebrates the bounty of springtime and showcases the rustic elegance of Sicilian cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true celebration of seasonal ingredients, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. The combination of creamy ricotta, salty Pecorino, and tender fresh fava beans creates a luxurious texture and a perfectly balanced flavor. It is an ideal dish for vegetarians, fans of Italian cuisine, or anyone seeking a fresh and authentic Mediterranean dining experience. Plus, it is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh fava beans, shelled
• Pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or your preferred type)
• Ricotta cheese
• Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fava beans and blanch them for about 1-2 minutes. Drain and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. Peel the outer skins to reveal the bright green beans.
2. In the same pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Meanwhile, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the peeled fava beans to the skillet and cook for a couple of minutes, just until warmed through.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the fava beans. Toss to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary to help coat the pasta evenly.
6. Remove from heat. Stir in ricotta and Pecorino cheese, mixing until creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute fava beans with peas if fresh fava beans are not available.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Incorporate lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Use different types of pasta such as orecchiette or tagliatelle for a varied texture.
• Add pancetta or prosciutto for a non-vegetarian version.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or a bit of olive oil to restore moisture. Stir gently until heated through, being careful not to overcook.

FAQs

How do I know when fava beans are cooked properly?

Fava beans should be tender but still bright green after blanching for about 1-2 minutes.

Can I use frozen fava beans instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen fava beans are a convenient substitute and work well in this recipe.

What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta that holds sauce well is ideal for this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the fava beans and cheese mixture a few hours in advance.

What can I use instead of Pecorino Romano?

Parmesan cheese is a good alternative if Pecorino is unavailable.

Is it necessary to peel the fava beans?

Yes, peeling the fava beans ensures a tender, sweet bite without a tough outer skin.

Can I add more vegetables to this pasta?

Yes, asparagus, zucchini, or peas would complement the flavors nicely.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Substitute the ricotta and Pecorino with vegan cheese alternatives.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It is not recommended as the texture of the cheese and pasta may change after freezing.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino pairs beautifully with this pasta.

Conclusion

Fresh Fava Bean Pasta with Pecorino and Ricotta is a delicious testament to the simple, fresh flavors of Sicilian cuisine. Perfect for spring and early summer, it delivers a satisfying, creamy, and flavorful dish with minimal effort. Whether you are preparing it for a quick dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress with its authenticity and vibrant taste.

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