Garlicky Fava Beans

When talking about the fava bean, the phrase "Will work for food" has never been so relevant before. Only available for a handful of days in the Spring, think of the fava bean as one of those duties women performed while rocking in the shade of the front porch and sipping sun tea.

This creamy, delectable bean needs a lot of attention. First you strip the seam, as you would with a pea pod, and coax the green giants out of the shell. Then a quick dip in boiling water loosens the bean from the waxy coating. Who knew the fava bean was so important it needs two security measures! Nimble fingers work to squeeze the bean out of this veritable fortress. Now you are ready to continue with the actual recipe.

After all that work, it just makes sense to keep it simple. A toss in butter and garlic will do; heck, toss anything in butter and garlic and it's gonna be good. And you deserve good... after all that work.
Tips and Techniques: About.com has great step by step instructions on how to clean the fava bean.

Garlicky Fava Beans

Fava beans
Butter
Garlic
Parmesan cheese
Black pepper

This is simple and doesn't need to be complicated with amounts or trying recipes.

In a saute pan, melt a pat of butter with finely chopped garlic. Add the fava beans and toss a few times. When the beans are warmed and the garlic is simply sauteed, about 3 minutes, remove from heat. Shave fresh Parmesan cheese on top with fresh black pepper.