Easy Mango Black Bean Salad Recipe

Brighten up your meal times with this refreshing mango black bean salad recipe that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Bursting with flavors, this dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, making it a crowd-pleaser at any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option or a side dish to complement your dinner, this salad is packed with nutrients and flavor, and will no doubt become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Growing up, my family frequently enjoyed tropical fruits, especially during the summer. My grandmother, an avid gardener, would often treat us to fresh mangoes from her backyard. This salad, inspired by those sunlit afternoons, combines her love for tropical flavors with a few modern twists. It’s a recipe that carries memories of warmth, laughter, and shared meals, translating it into a dish that feels like home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This mango black bean salad is not just another salad. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors. Firstly, it’s a time-saver, ready in just 15 minutes. Secondly, it’s versatile enough to be served as a main or a side. The sweet tanginess of mango paired with the earthiness of black beans creates a taste sensation, while the added crunch of fresh veggies makes it irresistible. Moreover, it’s vegan and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without compromising on taste.

Ingredients Notes

Let’s talk about the star ingredients. Opt for ripe, yet firm mangoes for the best balance of sweetness and texture. When it comes to black beans, canned beans work just fine, but for a richer flavor, consider cooking dried beans. Fresh cilantro is essential for that burst of freshness, although parsley can be a substitute if desired. For a spicy kick, jalapeños are included, but bell peppers can be a milder alternative.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by rinsing the black beans thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and frothy residue that might be present from the canning process.

Step 2

Dice the mango into small cubes, ensuring that the pieces are uniform in size for even flavor distribution. Do the same for red onion, bell peppers, and any additional vegetables you’re incorporating.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, mango, vegetables, and cilantro. Give them a gentle toss to mix all the ingredients well.

Step 4

Prepare the dressing by whisking together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add the dressing to the salad and mix until all components are well-coated.

Step 5

Optional: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Storage Options

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad appears dry after storage, refresh it with a bit of lime juice or olive oil. Freezing is not recommended due to the change in texture of the ingredients once thawed.

Variations & Substitutions

For an exotic twist, add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or chopped avocado for creaminess. Substitute the black beans with chickpeas for a different protein punch, or add cooked quinoa for an extra hearty version. To accommodate different taste preferences, feta cheese offers a wonderful complement if you’re not observing a vegan diet.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect for summer barbecues or picnics. Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it as a light main course. It pairs well with tortilla chips for a more casual serving style. A chilled glass of white wine or citrus-infused iced tea makes a refreshing accompaniment to this vibrant dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen mango for the salad? Yes, you can use frozen mango if fresh ones are unavailable. Make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to prevent the salad from becoming watery.

How can I reduce the spice level of the salad? To make the salad less spicy, simply remove the seeds and veins from the jalapeño, or replace it entirely with bell peppers. Adjust the dressing by omitting any additional spicy ingredients if necessary.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Prepare all ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Combine them just before serving to maintain that fresh, crisp texture.

Easy Mango Black Bean Salad Recipe

This refreshing mango black bean salad is perfect for a quick summer lunch. It combines the sweetness of mango with the earthiness of black beans, complemented by a tangy lime dressing.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 cup black beans cooked or canned
• ▢ 1 large mango peeled and diced
• ▢ 1 cup red bell pepper diced
• ▢ 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
• ▢ 0.5 cup red onion finely chopped
• ▢ 0.25 cup cilantro chopped
• ▢ 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon cumin ground
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon salt to taste
• ▢ 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a large bowl, combine the black beans, mango, red bell pepper, corn, red onion, and cilantro.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For additional crunch, add some chopped toasted nuts or seeds before serving.