LEMONY EDAMAME

4 TO 6 SERVINGS

Edamame are soybeans, and they are usually sold frozen, either in their shells or shelled, in most Asian and mainstream supermarkets. Generally, I like to blanch the edamame (in their pods) briefly in boiling water, toss them in sea salt, and keep them on hand for snacking. I add shelled edamame to stir-fries, soups, salads, and curries, or serve as a simple side dish like this one.

1 bag (1 pound) frozen shelled edamame or soybeans

LEMON DRESSING (combine in a small bowl)

3 tablespoons fruity extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, or to taste

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1. Bring 6 cups water to a boil in a large pot. Drop the edamame into the boiling water, stir, and cook for 1 minute. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold running water. Drain thoroughly and place in a serving bowl.

2. Pour the Lemon Dressing over the edamame and toss lightly to coat. Serve at room temperature or chilled as a side dish with Scallion-Ginger Sea Bass or another entrée.

Edamame are not only rich in protein and fiber, but also believed to reduce the risk of heart disease.

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