Crostini With Fava Bean Spread And Mint
These creamy fava bean crostini are a delightful appetizer option that is both elegant and flavorful. The luscious fava bean puree is infused with a hint of fresh mint and spread generously over toasted baguette slices, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Garnished with fresh mint sprigs and a drizzle of olive oil, these crostini are perfect for any gathering or special occasion. A lovely addition to your repertoire of appetizer recipes, these crostini are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant colors and delectable taste.
— Constant Cookbook
Ingredients
- 30 baguette slices, each 1/4 inch thick (about 1 large baguette)
- 2 lb. fava beans
- 3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 6 Tbs. heavy cream
- 2 tsp. sea salt
- 1 tsp. freshly ground pepper
- 3 Tbs. minced fresh mint
- 30 small fresh mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat an oven to 350°F.
- Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake, turning once halfway through baking, until lightly golden, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Remove the fava beans from their pods and discard the pods. Bring a pot three-fourths full of water to a boil over high heat. Add the fava beans and cook until the beans are tender and the skins slip easily from the beans, 10 to 25 minutes; the timing depends on the age of the beans. Drain the beans in a colander and, when cool enough to handle, slip off the skins and discard them.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the beans, the 3 Tbs. olive oil, 3 Tbs. of the cream, the salt, pepper and minced mint and process until a creamy puree forms. If the mixture seems too dry, add up to 3 Tbs. more cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning. (The puree may be made up to 2 hours in advance, covered and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before spreading on the baguette slices.)
- Spread the puree on the baguette slices and arrange on a platter. Garnish the crostini with the mint sprigs and then drizzle them with olive oil. Serve immediately. Serves 10 to 12.
- Adapted from Williams-Sonoma <i>Entertaining with the Seasons</i> (Free Press, 2010).
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