Zesty Mango Black Bean Salsa

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Looking for a fresh and vibrant salsa that’s more than just a sidekick? This Zesty Mango Black Bean Salsa is exactly what you need. It's a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that can transform any meal into a tropical delight.

Ingredients for Zesty Mango Black Bean Salsa

The star of this salsa is, of course, the black beans. They add a hearty texture and a subtle earthiness that grounds the dish. Next up, the ripe mango brings a juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. The red bell pepper, with its crispness, adds a refreshing crunch and a splash of color. The red onion contributes a sharp bite, which balances out the sweetness of the mango. Fresh cilantro is that herbal note that makes everything taste fresh and bright. For the dressing, lime juice offers a tangy zing, while olive oil gives it a smooth finish. A touch of ground cumin introduces a warm, earthy spice, and as always, a pinch of salt and pepper is essential to bring all these flavors together.

Tips & Tricks

  • For the best flavor, use a ripe mango that gives slightly under pressure but isn’t too soft.
  • If you prefer a bit of heat, add finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the salsa.
  • Make sure to rinse the black beans well to remove any excess sodium and that canned taste.
  • Allowing the salsa to rest is key for flavor development, so don’t skip this step!

Serving Suggestions

This salsa shines as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, adding a tropical flair. It’s also fantastic as a dip with tortilla chips, or you can spoon it onto tacos for an extra burst of flavor. For a light and refreshing salad, serve it over a bed of baby spinach or arugula.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen mango. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before dicing.
How long does this salsa keep in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What can I use instead of cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh parsley or mint for a different twist.

Zesty Mango Black Bean Salsa Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them: drain and rinse the black beans, dice the mango and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and chop the cilantro. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Use a large spoon to mix them gently, ensuring that each scoop has a bit of everything.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This is your dressing, and it’s where the magic happens.

Pour the dressing over the black bean mixture. Toss everything together gently, making sure the dressing coats all components evenly. It's important not to mash the ingredients as you want to keep the textures distinct.

Let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive taste experience.

Once it's ready, serve immediately or store it in the refrigerator if you're planning to enjoy it later.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with fresh, bold flavors that wake up your taste buds.
  • Quick and easy to prepare — ready in about 20 minutes.
  • Versatile enough for topping, dipping, or just scooping.
  • Healthy and packed with nutrients from beans, mango, and vegetables.
  • Perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want a taste of sunshine.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup diced ripe mango
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the black bean mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

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