Bulgur with Fava Beans

Directions

1. 1
   In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. 2
   Add the bulgur and cook for 2 minutes.
3. 3
   Remove from the heat and let stand uncovered until the bulgur is softened and chewy, about 30 minutes.
4. 4
   Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350.
5. 5
   Toast the pine nuts for about 7 minutes, or until golden.
6. 6
   If using fresh fava beans, blanch them in a small saucepan of boiling water until just tender, about 5 minutes.
7. 7
   Peel off the tough skins.
8. 8
   If using limas, blanch them in a saucepan of boiling water until tender, about 2 minutes.
9. 9
   Drain the bulgur in a fine sieve, pressing lightly to extract as much water as possible.
10. 10
    Transfer to a bowl and stir in the fava or lima beans, tomato, garlic, dates, lemon juice and oil.
11. 11
    Season with salt and pepper and let stand at room temperature for at least 1 hour or up to 3 hours to allow the flavors to blend.
12. 12
    Stir in the cilantro and pine nuts.