Black Bean Salad Recipe
This Black Bean Salad Recipe brings together crisp bell peppers, protein-rich black beans, and a zesty lime dressing, creating a dish that’s perfect for quick lunches, weeknight dinners, or healthy meal prep. Featured on Everyday Excellent, this salad combines fresh ingredients and warming spices for a bold, colorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s simple to recreate at home. With minimal prep and no cooking required, it’s an ideal recipe for anyone looking for a healthy salad recipe that’s fast, flavorful, and satisfying.
The Inspiration
The inspiration behind this Black Bean Salad Recipe comes from Latin American cuisine, where black beans are a staple in both savory and fresh dishes. Black beans are celebrated for their versatility, high protein content, and rich, earthy flavor. Host Vanessa Gianfrancesco wanted to create a recipe that is approachable for home cooks while still delivering a bold and vibrant flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 2 x 19 oz (539 g) cans black beans, rinsed and patted dry (substitute kidney beans or chickpeas)
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 cup (165 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, finely diced (substitute yellow or white onion)
- 1/4 cup (8 g) cilantro leaves, chopped (substitute parsley or green onion)
- 1 tsp (3 g) chili powder
- 1 tsp (3 g) cumin
- ½ tsp (2 g) garlic powder
- ½ tsp (2 g) onion powder
- Zest from 1 lime
- Juice from 2 limes
- 3 tbsp (44 ml) olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Method
- Begin by rinsing and draining the black beans to remove excess sodium. Dice the red and green bell peppers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely dice the red onion. Chop the cilantro and zest and juice the limes.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the black beans, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
- Pour in the olive oil, lime juice, and lime zest, then sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to taste. Toss gently to combine, making sure the beans remain intact while the dressing coats all the vegetables evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately for a fresh crunch, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let flavors meld and intensify.
Serving Suggestions
This Black Bean Salad recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted fish, or a protein-rich main course for an easy weeknight dinner. Transform it into a main course salad by serving over quinoa, brown rice, or mixed greens for a filling, nutritious meal.
For a fun twist, spoon the salad into tacos, burritos, or wraps, or use it in lettuce cups for a light, flavorful appetizer. It’s also perfect for potlucks, picnics, and summer barbecues, as it holds up well chilled while maintaining vibrant colors and bold flavors. Pair it with a crisp white wine, sparkling water with lime, or a refreshing iced tea to enhance the citrusy notes of the salad.
Final Thoughts
This Black Bean Salad Recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful no-cook dish that’s perfect for lunches, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. Packed with protein-rich black beans, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing, it delivers bold, refreshing flavors in just minutes. Easy to make, versatile, and naturally vegan and gluten-free, this salad is a must-try for anyone searching for a simple yet satisfying healthy salad recipe. Featured on Everyday Excellent, it’s a go-to dish that will become a staple in your kitchen for everyday meals, entertaining, or meal prep. Whether served as a side, main course, or taco filling, it’s a recipe that combines convenience, nutrition, and vibrant flavor in one colorful dish.
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