Have You Heard of Greek Fava Dip?

Last month, I went to Greece, where I enjoyed wonderful moments with family. I had the best Fava dip (yellow split pea dip) while I was dining at a cozy taverna right by the beach. The Fava I tasted was creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor. I had to recreate the recipe at home and share it with you!

Greek Fava Dip on the Island of Crete

What is Greek Fava Dip

Fava, made from yellow split peas, is a beloved dish in Greek cuisine. It is often served as a meze, a small plate meant for sharing, typically enjoyed alongside a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. This simple mix of ingredients can yield a dish full of flavor.

Not only is Fava comforting, but it is also packed with nutrients. The combination of legumes and olive oil creates a creamy, satisfying texture. For context, a serving of Fava contains about 9 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.

Recipe For Greek Fava Dip

To recreate this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 200 g fava (yellow split peas)

• 1 liter boiling water

• 1 carrot

• 1 onion

• 1 clove garlic

• 6 tbsp olive oil

• Pinch of granulated sugar

• 2 bay leaves

• 1.2 liters water

• 1 vegetable stock cube

• 1 sprig rosemary

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt

• Pepper

  
  

Optional for serving:

• Roasted cherry tomatoes

• Roasted onion

• Pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil

  
  

Method

1. Place the fava in a bowl, pour hot water over it, and stir with a wooden spoon.

2. Leave it until the water darkens, then drain the fava into another bowl and set aside.

3. Slice the carrot, onion, and garlic thinly and place them in a pot.

4. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, pepper, salt, sugar, and the bay leaves.

5. Place the pot over high heat and sauté the vegetables for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden. Be careful—they shouldn’t take on too much color.

6. Add the fava and stir with a wooden spoon.

7. Immediately pour in the vegetable stock and add the rosemary.

8. Lower the heat completely and simmer, stirring continuously, until the water evaporates and the fava has softened.

9. Remove from the heat and discard the rosemary and bay leaves.

10. Transfer the fava to a food processor, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and the remaining olive oil, and blend until smooth and creamy.

11. Serve with roasted cherry tomatoes, roasted onion, a drizzle of olive oil, thyme, and freshly ground pepper.

Are you looking for guidance from a registered dietitian to help with meeting your health/fitness goals or manage a health concern like type 2 diabetes, or other dietary needs? Get in touch for expert support tailored to your goals! Book your appointment here

Joanna Tsintaris Registered Dietitian

Joanna Tsintaris, is the Founder of Nourish Dietitian —an online health and nutrition clinic offering personalized 1:1 dietetic advice. She is a registered Dietitian in the UK and Biomedical Science graduate with first class MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics. Specializing in weight loss and Type 2 Diabetes with an interest in sports nutrition, Joanna empowers clients to make sustainable lifestyle changes, addressing conditions like pre-diabetes, PCOS, and more. With a holistic approach, she fosters a healthier relationship with food, challenges weight stigma, and rejects diet culture. Her clinical expertise, coupled with a commitment to evidence-based practice, ensures clients receive compassionate and person-centered care. Beyond her professional pursuits, Joanna, embodies the principles of holistic well-being in her own life, whether practicing yoga, enjoying brunch, or savoring moments with coffee in hand.