What to do with broad beans
Love broad beans but unsure how to use them? Our top tips and recipes will provide inspiration beyond the obvious...
These unassuming legumes are both easy to grow and full of protein, plus they are a great source of vitamins A, B1 and B2.
Got a glut but not sure how to use it up? Check out our suggestions for sensational broad bean recipes to make the most of this seasonal treat. From salads to risotto and vibrant green toast toppers, this versatile ingredient can be used in plenty of delicious dishes.
For more ways to use broad beans, take inspiration from our broad bean recipe collection.
1. Asparagus & broad bean lasagne
Switch up this classic pasta dish with some vibrant spring greens. Use fresh asparagus and broad beans to create this low-fat veggie dinner with a twist. It even packs in 3 of your 5-a-day, so you can keep the family topped up with vital nutrients. Try our asparagus & broad bean lasagne.
More broad bean pasta recipes...
Papparedelle broad bean carbonara
Chicken & broad bean tagliatelle
2. Chorizo & broad bean risotto
A storecupboard staple, risotto rice is perfect for making a delicious and filling dish. This fusion of Spanish paprika-flavoured sausage with Italian rice is easy to make and only takes 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making it the perfect indulgent dinner. Try our chorizo & broad bean risotto and spice up your midweek.
More broad bean risotto recipes...
Risotto with peas & broad beans
Ultimate risotto primavera
3. Pea & broad bean shakshuka
A slight twist on a classic, our veggie pea & broad bean shakshuka is an instant brunch win. This dish of eggs in a spicy tomato sauce is loaded with fresh peas, broad beans and asparagus to turn it into a delightful spring sharing dish. It’s also easy to make, so no need to spend all morning in the kitchen.
4. Artichoke & broad bean tart with watercress pesto
This vegetarian artichoke & broad bean tart is a buffet centrepiece that'll disappear in minutes. Packed with broad beans, punchy parmesan cheese and a hint of lemon, this dish is simple to make, can be made a day in advance and served either hot or cold. That means less stress and more time with your dinner guests.
More broad bean tart recipes...
Broad bean & Lancashire cheese tart
Summer vegetable & quail's egg tart
5. Green bean minestrone
Full of vibrant summer flavours and plenty of texture, our green bean minestrone makes an ideal healthy dinner option. This wholesome bowlful will leave you full and satisfied. It's also great for using up stray veggies from the allotment. Try topping with a spoonful of fresh pesto before serving with chunks of bread for mopping up the delicious dregs.
More broad bean soup recipes...
Broad bean, yogurt & mint soup
6. Pea & broad bean hummus
This simple lunchtime treat of pea & broad bean hummus with goat's cheese and sourdough is everything we want from a meal. The earthy beans and smooth but sharp cheese are a match made in heaven. Try combining the goodness of broad beans with cannellini beans, mangetout, green beans and beyond. Adding beans to a dish is a surefire way to make your recipes low-GI, meaning energy will be released slowly into the body, keeping you satisfied for longer.
7. Broad bean & dill pilaf
Fragrant and versatile, this basmati rice-based dill & broad bean pilaf makes a great vegetarian main course or versatile side dish to pair with lamb and chicken. With just five minutes of prep time, this is the ultimate quick-fix meal.
More broad bean pilaf recipes...
Broad bean & chicken pilaf
8. Spanish roast fish with broad beans & chorizo
Our Spanish roast fish with broad beans & chorizo is bound to please your palate. With a generous glug of white wine, chorizo and broad beans, this baked whole sea bass makes its own delicious sauce as it cooks, allowing it to soak into the tender new potatoes. This is our favourite decadent dinner for two.
More broad bean & fish recipes...
Red mullet with saffron baked orzo & broad beans
Simple salmon with spring pasta
9. Tomato, burrata & broad bean salad
This easy Italian-inspired salad is the perfect throw-together starter if you're entertaining. Our tomato, burrata & broad bean salad is the perfect balance of sweetness, creamy mellow cheese and zingy salsa verde. Serve up this plate of goodness at your next barbecue when the sun comes out.
More broad bean salad recipes...
Broad bean & courgette salad
Broad bean, barley & mint salad
10. Pork chops with broad bean & minted Jersey mash
Make the most of sensational seasonal produce with our pork chops with broad bean & minted Jersey mash. Lighten up a plate of succulent pan-fried pork chops with a herby, textured mash. Squeeze over the caramelised lemon for a twist of citrus.
More meaty broad bean recipes...
Crispy lamb breast with broad beans, chilli & marjoram
Garlicky lamb cutlets with Sicilian-style greens
Enjoyed these recipes? Try our other key ingredient guides...
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Top 10 ways to serve blackberries
How to cook asparagus
What are your top tips for using broad beans? Let us know in a comment below...
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