Immerse yourself in the vibrant and refreshing flavors of the Caribbean with this delightful Black Bean and Mango Salad. This dish combines the earthy richness of black beans with the sweet juiciness of ripe mangoes, creating a salad that is both hearty and refreshing. Perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a picnic favorite, this salad will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, this Caribbean Black Bean and Mango Salad is a burst of color and flavor. The main ingredients include black beans, fresh mangoes, bell peppers, red onions, and cilantro, all tossed in a tangy lime dressing. The result is a salad with a perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and a hint of spice. The creamy black beans provide a satisfying texture, while the mangoes add a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the crisp vegetables. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy and flavorful addition to your meal rotation.
Enjoy the bright and sunny flavors of the Caribbean in every bite of this Black Bean and Mango Salad. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option, a colorful side dish for your barbecue, or a unique addition to your potluck menu, this salad is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, mix up this vibrant salad, and savor the taste of the tropics!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
For the Lime Dressing:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
- Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Lime Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey or agave syrup, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Pour the lime dressing over the black bean and mango mixture.
- Gently toss to coat the salad with the dressing, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- If using avocado, gently fold it in last to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl.
- Garnish with additional cilantro leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for Success:
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Ensure the mango is ripe for the best sweetness and texture.
- This salad pairs well with grilled dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
Enjoy the fresh, tropical flavors of this Caribbean Black Bean and Mango Salad. It’s a perfect way to add a touch of the islands to your everyday meals!
