Broad Bean and Pecorino Salad
Broad Bean and Pecorino Salad is a rustic Italian dish, particularly popular in Tuscany and Lazio, that celebrates the fresh, earthy flavor of broad beans (fava beans) paired with the salty, tangy bite of Pecorino cheese. It typically combines tender, cooked broad beans with shaved or crumbled Pecorino, fresh herbs like mint or parsley, and a simple dressing of high-quality olive oil and lemon juice.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This salad is a protein and fiber-rich dish, with a moderate amount of healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese, making it a satisfying and nutrient-dense option. A typical serving provides a good source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and key minerals, with a rough calorie range of 250-350 kcal per serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Potassium | 520 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Folate | 180 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 18 mg |
| Vitamin K | 25 mcg |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
| Magnesium | 65 mg |
| Zinc | 2.8 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this dish is a hallmark of Italian 'cucina povera' (peasant cooking), transforming simple, seasonal ingredients into a flavorful and nutritious meal. Nutritionally, the combination of broad beans and Pecorino creates a complete protein profile, offering all essential amino acids, which is notable for a plant-forward dish.
