Summer is here, and it’s time to ditch those heavy winter meals for something light, fresh, and delicious. Black beans are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and when combined with a variety of colorful vegetables, herbs, and spices, they can create some truly refreshing salads perfect for the warmest months of the year. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different black bean salad recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic combinations like corn and bell peppers to more adventurous pairings like roasted sweet potatoes and pomegranate seeds, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of black beans in a whole new light.
Spicy Mango Black Bean Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of mango with the heat of jalapeño and the earthiness of black beans, perfect for a flavorful and nutritious side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, black beans, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Avocado Lime Black Bean Salad
This vibrant salad combines the creaminess of avocados with the tanginess of lime juice, the earthy flavor of black beans, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Cut the avocado into small pieces and add to the bowl.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None, just assemble and enjoy!
Southwest Corn and Black Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a zesty Southwest-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warmed black beans, corn kernels, and diced red bell pepper.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Cilantro Lime Black Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of cilantro, lime, and black beans with a hint of garlic and onion for a flavorful and healthy side dish or light lunch. Perfect for warm weather, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and onion.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
This salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of black beans, making it a perfect option for a quick and healthy meal. With its mix of textures and flavors, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, red bell pepper, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tomato Cucumber Black Bean Salad
Enjoy the perfect blend of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and savory black beans in this refreshing salad.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (any variety)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, and black beans.
2. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including preparation time)
Greek-Inspired Black Bean Salad
Experience the Mediterranean flavors of Greece in this vibrant black bean salad, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. This colorful dish combines the creamy texture of feta cheese with the tangy zip of kalamata olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, parsley, and mint.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with sliced kalamata olives.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potato Black Bean Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy taste of black beans, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are roasting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Once sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly before dicing into small cubes.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes, black bean mixture, and lime juice in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Salsa Salad
This colorful salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, packed with the flavors of Mexico. A mix of black beans, corn, and juicy tomatoes, all tied together with a zesty dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, tomato, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Black Bean Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional black bean salads, this recipe combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with the brightness of lime juice and the earthy flavor of roasted black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeño peppers
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Toss black beans with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted black beans, red bell pepper, and jalapeño peppers.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Bell Pepper Salad
This vibrant salad combines the earthy flavor of black beans with the sweetness of bell peppers, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish. With its bold colors and textures, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, bell peppers, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chill)
Pineapple Black Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines sweet pineapple chunks with the savory flavors of black beans, red onion, and cilantro, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, pineapple, and red onion.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Black Bean and Chickpea Salad
This hearty salad combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the bold flavor of black beans, all tied together with a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, chickpeas, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Mexican Street Corn Black Bean Salad
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of grilled corn, black beans, and a hint of lime for a perfect summer side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen black beans, thawed
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup grilled corn kernels (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (Mexican cheese)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, black beans, grilled corn kernels, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and salt until dissolved.
3. Pour the lime dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Top with crumbled queso fresco and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including grilling time for corn)
Note: To grill corn, preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush ears of corn with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, rotating frequently, until slightly charred.
Black Bean and Mango Salsa Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of mango with the savory flavor of black beans, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. With its bold flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked black beans, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
3. Sprinkle cumin over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Black Bean and Spinach Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the creaminess of black beans with the earthy taste of spinach, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, spinach, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Balsamic Black Bean Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the rich taste of balsamic vinegar with the creamy texture of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
2. Add the black beans, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Black Bean and Pomegranate Salad
This vibrant salad combines the earthy flavor of black beans with the sweet-tart taste of pomegranate, perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pomegranate seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, cilantro, and lime juice.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Fold in pomegranate seeds.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and chill.
Black Bean and Zucchini Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of zucchini with the earthy flavor of black beans, all tied together with a hint of citrus. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine zucchini, black beans, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Black Bean and Farro Salad
A hearty and flavorful salad that combines the nutty goodness of farro with the spicy kick of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in black beans. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, black bean mixture, and any desired toppings (such as diced tomatoes or avocado). Toss to combine.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these refreshing black bean salad recipes perfect for summer! From Spicy Mango Black Bean Salad to Greek-Inspired Black Bean Salad, and Roasted Sweet Potato Black Bean Salad, there’s something for everyone. These vibrant salads are packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making them a great option for a quick lunch or dinner. With a variety of ingredients like avocado, lime, quinoa, and corn, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Try one (or two, or three…) today and stay cool this summer!