Pull back on the tip of the pod, and “unzip” it, opening the pod and removing the beans. Alternately, you can use the tip of a paring knife to gently open the pod along the seam, being careful not to cut the beans. You will have roughly one cup of fava beans after shelling.

Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring to a boil, and fill a small bowl with ice water and set aside. Add about a teaspoon of salt to the water, and add the fava beans. Turn down the heat and simmer at a gentle boil for 1 minute. Drain immediately and pour the beans into the ice water to stop the cooking process.

Drain the beans and gently squeeze from the waxy outer skin. The bean are now ready for your pastas, soups, salads, and purees!