Sharing Some of Our Favorite Broadbean Salad Recipes

What is Broadbean Salad?

It is fun to learn different broadbean salad recipes. Broadbean salad is a type of salad that you make from a large flat edible green bean that you typically eat without the pod. Broadbeans also go by the name fava beans in North America. 

Fava beans are green legumes that grow in pods. People worldwide eat them because they have a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.

Fava beans

The Health Benefits of Broadbeans

Vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein abound in fava beans. They have various health benefits, including an increase in motor function and immunity. Here are ten scientifically proven fava bean health advantages.

Packed Full of Nutrients

Fava beans have an astonishing number of nutrients for their small size. They’re high in plant protein, folate, and other vitamins and minerals. They’re also high in soluble fiber, which can help with digestion and cholesterol reduction. Cooked fava beans 5.9 ounces (170 grams) include:

  • Carbohydrates: 1.32 ounces (33 grams)
  • Fat: Less than 0.04 ounces (1 gram)
  • Protein: 0.52 ounces (13 grams)
  • Fiber: 0.36 ounces (9 grams) 
  • Folate (DV): 40% 
  • Manganese: 36% 
  • Copper: 22% 
  • Phosphorous: 21% 
  • Magnesium: 18% 
  • Iron: 14% 
  • Potassium: 13% 
  • Thiamine (vitamin B1) and zinc 11%

Fava beans also have lower levels of all other B vitamins, calcium, and selenium. Fava beans are high in soluble fiber, protein, folate, manganese, copper, and several other minerals, making them a great source of these nutrients.

Aid in the Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms

Levodopa (L-dopa) is a chemical found in fava beans that your body turns to the neurotransmitter dopamine. Parkinson’s disease is the death of dopamine-producing brain cells, which results in tremors, motor function problems, and trouble walking. L-dopa-containing medicines treat these symptoms.

As a result, despite the data limitation, eating fava beans may aid with Parkinson’s disease symptoms. A tiny trial of 11 Parkinson’s patients discovered that consuming 1.5 cups (250 grams) of fava beans without medication had a similar favorable effect on blood dopamine levels and motor function as L-dopa medicines after 12 hours.

Another trial of six persons with Parkinson’s disease found that combining fava beans with the anti-medicine Parkinson’s carbidopa alleviated symptoms and typical treatment combinations. While these findings are encouraging, more research is necessary. Even though fava beans are high in L-dopa, you should not use them as a medicine substitute.

L-dopa, which the body converts to dopamine, is abundant in fava beans. Because low dopamine levels are a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease, fava beans may help alleviate symptoms. More research on this subject is still essential.

May Aid in the Prevention of Birth Defects

Fava beans consist of folate, a nutrient that aids the fetus’s development. Folate is essential for the formation of cells and organs. To lower the chance of neural tube abnormalities, or problems with her baby’s brain and spinal cord development, an expectant mother requires more folate from foods and supplements.

It’s projected that over 260,000 babies were born with neural tube abnormalities in 2015, many of which might have been the case with proper maternal folate intake. 

In research on over 23,000 women, infants of moms with the highest daily intake of dietary folate had a 77 percent lower risk of brain and spinal cord disorders than children of mothers with the lowest consumption.

Fava beans are a good option for pregnant women because they contain 40% of the daily need for folate in just one cup (170 grams). The high folate in fava beans helps infants develop their brain and spinal cord properly. Pregnant women who have enough folate can avoid neural tube abnormalities.

Provide Immune-Supporting Nutrients

Consuming fava beans regularly may help to strengthen your immune system. They’re particularly high in chemicals that may boost antioxidant activity. Antioxidants are important for your body’s immunological protection because they battle free radicals, which can damage cells and cause disease.

In one test-tube investigation, extracts from fava beans boosted the antioxidant activity of human lung cells by up to 62.5 percent.

Furthermore, fava beans include chemicals that help boost the antioxidant glutathione’s activity in human cells and postpone cellular aging. Eating fava beans may boost immunity because antioxidants improve immune function, but further research is needed.

It’s Good for Your Bones

Manganese and copper are abundant in fava beans, two elements that may help to prevent bone loss. Human research shows manganese and copper are also essential for bone strength.

A one-year study indicates that taking a supplement with manganese and copper, as well as vitamin D, calcium, and other nutrients, enhanced bone mass in women with weak bones in postmenopausal women.

Manganese and copper, combined with calcium and zinc, help prevent bone loss in healthy older women. According to research, appropriate levels of manganese and copper — two elements rich in fava beans — may increase bone strength in animals and humans.

May Help With Anemia Symptoms

You may alleviate anemia symptoms by eating iron-rich fava beans. Iron is a requirement for the production of hemoglobin. It allows red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body. Characteristics of anemia are fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

In a study of 200 young women, those who reported low dietary iron intake were six times more likely to be anemic than those who claimed enough intake. Regular consumption of fava beans and other iron-rich plant foods may help raise blood iron levels and alleviate anemia symptoms.

On the other hand, Fava beans contain a type of iron better absorbed when combined with vitamin C from foods like citrus fruits or bell peppers. Furthermore, fava beans are not ideal for persons with the genetic condition of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency because they can cause hemolytic anemia, a particular type of blood problem.

Consumption of fava beans regularly may help raise blood iron levels and alleviate symptoms of anemia caused by a lack of iron.

It has the Potential to Lower Blood Pressure

Fava beans are high in nutrients that are good for your heart. They include magnesium and potassium, which may help relax blood arteries and lower blood pressure. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which emphasizes foods high in potassium and magnesium, helps lower blood pressure.

Furthermore, a 10-year study of 28,349 women indicates that those who consumed the most magnesium in their diet were less likely to develop high blood pressure than those who consumed the least.

According to this study, consuming a diet rich in fava beans and other magnesium and potassium-rich foods can help decrease blood pressure and enhance heart health.

Magnesium and potassium are abundant in fava beans, which may aid in relaxing blood arteries and lower blood pressure.

It May Help you Lose Weight

Fava beans may help you lose weight. At only 187 calories, a one-cup (170-gram) portion of fava beans delivers 0.5 ounces (13 grams) of protein and 0.3 ounces (9 grams) of fiber. A high-protein, high-fiber diet may increase feelings of fullness, resulting in lower calorie consumption and weight loss.

Compared to a diet with the same number of calories but only 15% from protein, a diet with 30% of calories from proteins boosts feelings of fullness and decreases daily calorie intake by 441 calories on average, according to a small study of 19 adults.

Another four-year trial of 522 adults found that those who ate a high-fiber diet with more than 15 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories shed more than five pounds (2.4 kilograms) than those who ate a low-fiber diet.

As a result, including protein- and fiber-rich fava beans in your diet may aid in weight loss.

Foods high in protein and fiber, such as fava beans, can help you lose weight and consume less calories.

It has the Potential to Lower Cholesterol

The majority of the fiber in fava beans is soluble, which may aid in cholesterol reduction.

Soluble fiber softens your stool by absorbing water in your gut, generating a gel-like material, and promoting good bowel movements.

It can also attach to cholesterol and eliminate it from your body. Soluble fiber has proof in multiple trials to help lower blood cholesterol levels in healthy adults and those with high levels.

Three-month research of 53 healthy adults found that those who consumed two more grams of soluble fiber per day had a 12.8% reduction in “bad” LDL cholesterol. In contrast, those who consumed less fiber had no significant changes in their LDL levels.

If you’re attempting to lower your cholesterol, including fava beans in your diet could help.

Fava beans are abundant in soluble fiber, which binds to cholesterol and removes it from the body. This sort of fiber also helps to decrease cholesterol levels in the blood.

They’re Versatile and Simple to Incorporate into Your Diet

Fava beans make a tasty snack or addition to meals. To prepare them, remove the inedible green pods first. Blanch the beans for 30 seconds before transferring them to ice water in a bowl. The waxy exterior layer will soften.

You can serve peeled fava beans whole or mashed on top of toast or in other recipes after cooking and tossing them in olive oil and herbs. To roast fava beans, boil them for 30 minutes, then drain them before adding olive oil and seasonings. On a baking sheet, roast the beans for another 30 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).

Salads, rice dishes, risottos, pasta, soups, and pizzas can benefit from adding cooked fava beans. Before eating, remove the pods and outer coverings from the fava beans. You can steam or roast fava beans and use them in several dishes and snacks.

Fava beans salad

Warm Broadbean Salad With Bacon

Time: 55 minutes

Serving size: 4 servings

Prep time: 40 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Facts

  • Fat: 0.81oz (20.2g) (0.18oz (4.6g) saturated) 
  • Protein: 0.54oz (13.5g) 
  • Carbs: 0.42oz (10.4g) (0.1oz (2.4g) sugars) 
  • Salt: 0.05oz (1.2g) 
  • Fiber: 0.44oz (10.9g) 

Equipment Needed

  1. Large frying pan
  2. Kitchen paper towel

Ingredients

  • 17.6 ounces (500 grams) of broad podded beans
  • 2 tbsp coarsely chopped fresh flatleaf parsley or mint
  • 1.8 ounces (50 grams) (1-2) finely chopped shallots
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus 1 tsp and extra to serve
  • 1 fat garlic clove, finely chopped
  • Sea salt flakes to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1.8 ounces (50 grams) rindless, smoked, dry-cured streaky bacon          

Method

  1. Cook the beans for five minutes, or until just tender, in a pan of salted boiling water. Drain, then nick the skin of each one with your fingernail and pop out the bright green beans when cool enough to handle.
  2. Thinly slice the bacon rashers crosswise. In a large frying pan, heat 1 tsp oil, then add the bacon and stir-fry for three minutes over high heat, until crisp and golden. Place on a platter coated with paper towels and set aside.
  3. Place the pan over medium heat and add the 3 tbsp oil and garlic. Lower the heat as soon as the garlic begins to sizzle (but not brown), add the shallots, and cook for three to four minutes. Add the beans and mix well. Stir for two minutes or until thoroughly warm.
  4. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the lemon juice, most of the crisp bacon, the parsley or mint, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Serve by spooning the mixture onto a serving plate, drizzle with a little extra oil, and garnish with the leftover crisp bacon and a few sea salt flakes.

Broadbean, Lemon, and Feta Salad

Time: 35 minutes

Serving size: 10 servings

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 05 minutes

Nutritional Facts

  • Protein: 0.4oz (9.6g)
  • Total Fat: 0.34oz (8.6g)
  • Carbohydrate: 1.25oz (31.3g)
  • Sugars: 0.004oz (0.1g)
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.31oz (7.7g)
  • Sodium: 0.003 oz (87mg)
  • Calcium: 0.002oz (65mg)
  • Magnesium: 0.002oz (64.7mg)
  • Iron: 0.00001oz (0.3mg)
  • Zinc: 0.00003oz (1mg)
  • Phosphorus: 0.005oz (135.7mg)
  • Vitamin A: 134.3μg
  • Vitamin C: 0.0004oz (13.4mg)
  • Niacin B3: 0.00005oz (1.3mg)
  • Vitamin E: 0.00004oz (1.1mg)
  • Vitamin K: 4.6μg (micrograms)

Equipment Needed

  1. Saucepan
  2. Large bowl

Ingredients

  • 2 x 21.2 ounces (2 x 600 grams) pkts frozen broad beans
  • 0.7 ounces (20 grams) feta, crumbled
  • 1 lemon
  • 80ml (1/3 cup) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 bunch of fresh mint leaves picked, torn

Method

  1. Cook the beans for five minutes in a saucepan of boiling water until tender. Put it under cold running water. Drain the water. Peel and throw away the skins.  
  2. Meanwhile, remove the rind from the lemon with a zester. (Alternatively, peel the lemon rind with a vegetable peeler.) Remove the white pith from the skin with a little sharp knife. Remove the shell and cut it into extremely thin strips.) You should halve and juice the lemons.
  3. Combine the broad beans, lemon rind, mint, and feta cheese in a large bowl. In a small container, combine the lemon juice and oil—season with salt and pepper. To serve, drizzle the dressing over the salad.

Notes on The Recipe

  • Split the skin of one end of the broad bean with your fingertips. To remove the bean, gently squeeze it. Remove the skin and throw it away.
  • Prepare ahead of time: Up to one day ahead of time, prepare by the end of step 1. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container. You should complete step 2 up to one hour before serving. Swap the broad beans and feta for frozen peas and goat cheese, if desired.

Broadbean and Courgette Salad

Time: 25 minutes

Serving size: 4 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Facts

  • Fat: 0.92oz (23g)
  • Carbs: 0.2oz (5g)
  • Sugars: 0.08oz (2g)
  • Fiber: 0.16oz (4g)
  • Protein: 0.2oz (5g)
  • Salt: 0.0004oz (0.01g)

Equipment Needed

  1. Mixing bowl
  2. Large saucepan

Ingredients

  • 8 baby or four medium courgettes
  • 10 walnut halves, roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 7 ounces (200 grams) of broad podded beans
  • 50ml (0.05 liters) olive oil
  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar

Method

  1. To make the vinaigrette, combine the white wine vinegar, olive oil, and spices in a mixing bowl, then set away. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the broad beans, and cook for two to three minutes. Drain and immerse into ice water, then set aside to cool for a few minutes before peeling away the skins.
  2. On the diagonal, cut the young courgettes into four to five pieces. If using medium courgettes, cut them in half lengthwise and slice them into 5mm (0.03 in) thick slices.
  3. In a frying pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and add the courgettes. Cook for five to eight minutes, occasionally stirring, until they are a light golden color. Cook for another 30 seconds after adding the broad beans and spices. Remove the pan from the heat and add the vinaigrette while it’s still hot. Serve with chopped walnuts sprinkled about.

Recipe Suggestions

  • You should purchase broad beans in their pods, which should be firm and crisp.
  • Refrigerate for up to five days in a paper bag, then pod them appropriately. They only need a few minutes of cooking if they are young, fresh, and delicious raw. Remove the skin from the beans after cooking to expose two little beans.
Fava beans green salad

Bean There, Done That!

Fava beans are high in nutrients and may provide significant health advantages. Regularly eating these beans may help; alleviate Parkinson’s disease symptoms, prevent birth abnormalities, increase immunity, aid weight loss, and lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

However, there is a need for more research on the effects of fava beans on human health. Nonetheless, they’re a delicious and adaptable complement to a healthy, well-balanced meal.