Mango Black Bean Salad with Lime and Cilantro

 Craving a vibrant and refreshing salad that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Mango Black Bean Salad with Lime and Cilantro is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and zesty. Inspired by the fresh flavors of summer, this salad is incredibly easy to make and is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Mango Black Bean Salad

This Mango Black Bean Salad isn’t just another salad; it’s a flavor explosion! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh & Vibrant: The combination of sweet mango, savory black beans, and zesty lime is irresistible.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Versatile: Great as a side dish, topping for tacos, or a light lunch.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at potlucks and BBQs.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: Suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

This salad is a burst of sunshine in a bowl, offering a delightful escape with every mouthful.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Mango Black Bean Salad. Let’s gather our ingredients!

• Black Beans: 1/2 cup (85g), rinsed and drained. Opt for low-sodium canned beans or cook your own for the freshest taste.
• Ripe Mango: 1 cup (165g), diced. Choose a mango that’s slightly soft to the touch and has a fragrant aroma.
• Fresh Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Freshly squeezed lime juice is key for the best flavor!
• Fresh Cilantro: 1/4 cup (15g), chopped. Look for bright green, vibrant cilantro bunches.
• Red Onion: 1/4 cup (30g), diced. Red onion adds a lovely sharpness and color to the salad.
• Ground Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml). Toast the cumin lightly in a dry pan to unlock its full flavor potential!
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml), or to taste.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml), or to taste.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml). Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity note to the dressing.
• Avocado (Optional): 1/2 cup (75g), diced. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes!

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these tools handy before you start preparing your salad!

• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the salad ingredients.
• Small Bowl: To prepare the lime dressing.
• Whisk: To emulsify the dressing.
• Cutting Board: For chopping the vegetables and mango.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes dicing easier and safer.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

this …

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is simple enough for beginners, but delicious enough to impress your guests.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your perfect Mango Black Bean Salad!

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the rinsed and drained black beans, diced ripe mango, diced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed for a balanced flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Lime Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the lime dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the mango mushy. Ensure that all the ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Add Avocado (Optional)

If using avocado, add it last and fold it in carefully to avoid mashing. Gently incorporate the avocado to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from breaking down.

Step 5: Let the Flavors Meld

Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This resting period enhances the overall taste of the salad, allowing the dressing to fully penetrate the ingredients.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Mango Black Bean Salad chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge for added visual appeal and flavor. This salad is best enjoyed fresh!

Want another flavorful recipe? CHECK OUT: Avocado Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing – A zesty twist for spice lovers.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Mango Black Bean Salad is a success every time!

• Mango Selection: Choose mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. A ripe mango will have a fragrant aroma near the stem.
• Lime Juice: Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice lacks the vibrancy and freshness of freshly squeezed juice.
• Avocado Timing: Add avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning. If preparing ahead of time, toss the avocado with a little lime juice to help preserve its color.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cumin, salt, and pepper to your liking. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño.
• Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time! Allowing the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more delicious salad.

By following these tips, you’ll create a Mango Black Bean Salad that’s bursting with flavor and freshness!

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your Mango Black Bean Salad? Here are some delicious variations and substitutions!

• Add Corn: Grilled or canned corn kernels add a sweet and crunchy element.
• Spice it Up: Include diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Swap Herbs: Use mint or parsley instead of cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Add Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers contribute extra crunch and color.
• Make it Grainy: Add quinoa or brown rice for a heartier salad.

Feel free to experiment and create your own unique version of this delicious salad!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Mango Black Bean Salad

Wondering what to serve with your Mango Black Bean Salad? Here are some tasty ideas!

• Taco Topping: Spoon over grilled fish or chicken tacos for a refreshing twist.
• Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy on its own for a light and nutritious lunch.
• With Tortilla Chips: Serve as a vibrant dip with tortilla chips.

This salad pairs perfectly with a cool glass of sparkling water or a refreshing agua fresca. Enjoy!

Health Benefits

This Mango Black Bean Salad is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits!

• High in Fiber: Black beans are an excellent source of fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
• Rich in Vitamins: Mangoes are loaded with vitamins A and C, boosting your immune system.
• Good Source of Protein: Black beans provide plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Antioxidant-Rich: The combination of mangoes and cilantro offers antioxidants that protect against cell damage.

Each serving of this salad is a nutritional powerhouse that supports your overall well-being.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Mango Black Bean Salad to maintain its freshness and flavor!

• Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Avocado: If the salad contains avocado, add a squeeze of lime juice to prevent browning.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended.

Enjoy your Mango Black Bean Salad as a refreshing and convenient make-ahead dish!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad right before serving for the best results.

Can I use frozen mango?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the mango completely and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the salad. Frozen mango can be a convenient option when fresh mangoes are not in season.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Yes, this salad is naturally vegan! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect choice for vegans and vegetarians.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or cucumbers to customize the salad to your liking. These additions can add extra crunch and flavor.

How long will the salad last in the refrigerator?

The salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, as long as it is stored in an airtight container. However, the avocado may brown slightly over time, so it’s best to consume the salad within the first day or two.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 8g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 10g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more fresh and flavorful dishes? Check out these tasty recipes!

• Mediterranean Chickpea Pita Tacos – A flavorful and healthy meal.
• Chickpea and Black Bean Tacos with Avocado Lime Slaw – Another great taco option!
• Black Bean Corn Avocado Salad with Lime Vinaigrette – A similar salad with its own unique twist.

Conclusion

This Mango Black Bean Salad with Lime and Cilantro is a fast, flavorful, and incredibly versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s an irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whip it up tonight and share your masterpiece with us using #MangoBlackBeanSalad. We can’t wait to see your creations!

Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

Print