The delicate, milky flavor of fresh ricotta pairs with the grassy, lightly sweet taste of fava beans. Use best-quality cheese, produce, and bread here for a toast that’s more than the sum of its parts.
How to Make It
Bring 3 quarts water to a boil in a large stockpot over high. Stir in 2 tablespoons salt. Shell fava beans; add beans to boiling water. Cook until tender, about 4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, immediately transfer beans to a bowl filled with ice water; let stand 2 minutes. Drain well. If using shelled fresh beans, peel and discard skins from beans. Stir together peeled beans, 1 tablespoon oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F to 450°F). Brush bread slices evenly on both sides with remaining 1/3 cup oil. Place on unoiled grates; grill, uncovered, until grill marks appear, about 2 minutes per side.
Stir together ricotta, chopped tarragon, pepper, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small bowl; spread seasoned ricotta evenly on 1 side of each toast slice; top evenly with dressed favas. Cut toasts in half on an angle; arrange on a serving platter. Season with salt, and sprinkle with tarragon leaves.