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
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.