Sauteed Spinach and Fava Beans

Ingredients

• 1 (15 ounce) can fava beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• bouquet garni (available in some markets or combine 3 sprigs parsley, 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, 1 sprig fresh thyme)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pinch cayenne
• 10 ounces prewashed ready-to-eat spinach
• salt
• 1/8 lemon (optional) or lime wedge (optional)
• roasted red peppers (optional)
• 1/8 tomato, wedge (optional)
• 4 olives (optional)

Directions

1. 1

   Place beans in medium pot. Add water to cover beans and bring to boil. Add bouquet garni and cover, leaving lid slightly ajar.

2. 2

   Simmer 30 minutes. Drain beans and discard bouquet garni.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until it turns golden, about 5 minutes (important - do not let garlic burn). Remove garlic with slotted spoon and set aside.

4. 4

   Add cayenne and then stir in spinach, cover and let cook about 1 minute, until wilted. Season with salt.

5. 5

   Mound spinach onto large serving plate, top with beans and sprinkle with browned garlic. Add garnishes if desired.