Recipe: Fava Beans and Orzo Salad

the appetizer:

Simply Organic by Jesse Ziff Cool explains how to incorporate organic foods into your kitchen, with recipes like Ricotta-Green Onion Gnocchi; Fava Beans and Orzo Salad; and Fresh Corn Bites with Tarragon.

Fava Beans and Orzo Salad

Makes 4 servings

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Fava beans, also known as "faba" or "broad beans," are very common in the Mediterranean.

4 ounces orzo or other small pasta
2 pounds fava beans in their pods
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 red onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh marjoram
3 tablespoons chopped oil-packed
sun-dried tomatoes
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 bunch arugula (about 5 ounces)

Cook the orzo according to the package directions and drain.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Working in batches if necessary, boil the beans in their pods for 6 minutes, or until the beans inside are tender, but not mushy. Cool slightly. Remove and discard the pods. Using a small sharp knife, remove the outer skins of the beans.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the onion and garlic and cook for 7 minutes, or until very soft. Remove from the heat and stir in the marjoram, tomatoes, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the beans and orzo and toss to coat well.

Divide the arugula among 4 salad plates. Top with the bean salad.

Kitchen Tip

You can substitute 3 cups fresh or frozen peas or lima beans for the fava beans.