Santorini Fava Beans: The Velvety Miracle of Greek Cuisine and 2 Delicious Variations

Santorini fava is one of the most beloved dishes of Greek gastronomy. Although it is based on simple ingredients, it manages to stand out with its velvety texture and rich, earthy flavor. Originating from the volcanic soil of Santorini, this particular variety of fava has been cultivated for millennia, constituting a treasure of the local cuisine.

In this article you will find:

• The classic fava bean recipe step by step
• Two creative variations with caramelized onions & capers, as well as with roasted tomatoes & fennel
• Tips and secrets to make this traditional dish take off

The Classic Santorini Fava Bean Recipe (Authentic)

The classic recipe is simple and based on a few, but very carefully selected ingredients. The result is a velvety puree with a rich flavor that is usually served with olive oil, lemon and onion.

Materials

• 250 gr. Santorini Fava
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 1 clove of garlic
• 1 Laurel leaf
• 60 ml olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt, pepper
• 1 liter of water (approximately)

Implementation:

1. Rinse the fava beans under running water to remove any impurities.
2. In a large pot, add the fava beans, chopped onion, garlic, bay leaf and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally and skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
4. When the fava beans have completely softened and the mixture has reached a thick consistency, remove the bay leaf.
5. Add the olive oil and lemon juice and mash the fava beans with a blender or vegetable grinder until creamy.
6. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, with extra olive oil and onion slices on top.

Classic fava beans are a simple and nutritious dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish or even as a main course with fresh bread. However, if you want to experiment, there are several variations you can try.

Variation 1: Fava Beans with Caramelized Onions and Capers

Ideal for: More gourmet presentation and intense aromatic depth.

The caramelized onions bring sweetness and balance beautifully with the tang of the capers, giving the dish complexity and unique character.

Materials

• Same ingredients as the classic recipe, plus:
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for the onions)
• 1 teaspoon of sugar

Implementation:

1. Prepare it as in the classic recipe and keep it warm.
2. For the caramelized onions, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onions and sugar and mix well. Cook the onions slowly, stirring often, for about 20-30 minutes, until soft and golden.
4. Add the capers and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve the fava beans on a plate and top with the caramelized onions and capers. You can add extra olive oil if you want.

This variation adds a special flavor dimension to fava beans, with the sweetness of the onions bringing out the saltiness of the capers. It is ideal for those who want to give a more gourmet touch to the traditional dish.

Variation 2: Fava Beans with Roasted Tomatoes and Fennel

Ideal for: Summer days – refreshing and aromatic.

The fennel gives notes of anise and the juicy tomatoes freshness, creating a summer version of the traditional recipe.

Materials

Same ingredients as the classic recipe, plus:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 teaspoon fennel (or 1 small fennel, thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking)
• A few sprigs of fresh fennel for garnish

Implementation:

1. Prepare the Santorini fava beans as in the classic recipe and keep warm.
2. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
3. Spread the tomato slices on a baking sheet lined with baking paper, season with salt and pepper and sprinkle with the fennel. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake the tomatoes in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, until they soften and start to color at the edges.
5. Serve the fava beans on a plate and top with the roasted tomatoes. Garnish with fresh fennel sprigs and add extra olive oil if desired.

This variation is perfect for the summer months, when tomatoes are in season and full of flavor. The sweet acidity of the tomato combined with the aromatic fennel provides a refreshing note to the fava beans, creating a light and filling dish.

Taste Tradition with Pure Raw Ingredients

The success of every recipe starts with the quality of the ingredients. At Olive n Flower, you will find:

• Santorini fava beans of excellent quality
• Fresh herbs and aromatic spices
• Natural products without additives – straight from nature to your plate

Try This Fava Bean Recipe from Olive n Flower

Don’t wait any longer! Equip your kitchen with authentic ingredients and experience traditional Greek flavor the way it should be.

See our entire collection of fava beans and legumes here: