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Black Bean Salad

Black bean salad is a vibrant, hearty dish featuring creamy black beans mixed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy lime dressing. It’s quick to assemble, with a bright, slightly spicy flavor profile and a crisp, colorful appearance. Perfect as a healthy side or light main, it balances smoky, bright, and fresh elements seamlessly.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Latin American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked black beans rinsed and drained if canned
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 red onion diced red onion soaked in cold water for 10 minutes
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 1 lime
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • to taste salt
  • a pinch cayenne pepper optional for spice

Equipment

  • Can opener
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or fork
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold water, then gently pat them dry with a clean towel.
  2. Chop the cherry tomatoes in half and set aside. Dice the red onion, then soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow its sharpness.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed black beans, halved cherry tomatoes, drained red onion, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss to distribute evenly.
  4. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, ground cumin, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.
  5. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are coated with the vibrant, fragrant dressing.
  6. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed. Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Just before serving, you can add sliced avocado or crumbled cheese for extra richness and texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh lime and cilantro. Soaking red onion reduces its sharpness, making the salad more balanced. Letting the salad sit allows the flavors to develop fully, making it more delicious the next day.