It’s a definite sign of Spring when the first fava beans start making an appearance at market stalls around Florence. Fava beans are known as "baccelli" in Tuscany and for a few weeks in the spring they are everywhere, traditionally presented at the table as they are – long, green, shiny pods which belie the little treasures tucked away inside – the beans are shelled and eaten raw with a nice, salty pecorino cheese or silky, melt in the mouth prosciutto to contrast with the fresh, slightly bitter bite of the raw beans. <br /> <br />These crostini are prepared with the simplest ingredients, inspired by the simple way they are traditionally eaten at a Spring time table in Tuscany - no need to shell the fava beans one by one, just pop them out their long pods and straight into a mortar! I prepare them à la Jamie Oliver (i.e. smashing stuff up with a pestle and mortar and leaving it quite rustic looking); a very good, fruity, peppery extra virgin olive oil with this is a must! - Emiko

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