Zesty Cuban Black Bean Salad
This vibrant Zesty Cuban Black Bean Salad is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that captures the essence of Cuban cuisine. Featuring hearty black beans, crisp bell peppers, crunchy celery, and a refreshing lemon dressing, this salad is perfect as a light meal or a side dish at your next gathering. Packed with protein, fiber, and a burst of color, it's a nutritious option that is both healthy and satisfying. Enjoy this refreshing dish on a warm day or served alongside grilled meats for a delightful contrast.
N/A
Servings
100
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
black beans
1 (15 ounce can, drained and rinsed)
yellow bell pepper
1/2 (chopped)
red bell pepper
1/2 (chopped)
celery
1/2 (chopped)
red onion
2 (tablespoons, chopped)
fresh parsley
1 (tablespoon, chopped)
lemon juice
2 (tablespoons, freshly squeezed)
garlic
1 (clove, crushed)
ground cumin
1/4 (teaspoon)
extra virgin olive oil
3 (tablespoons)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed black beans, chopped yellow and red bell peppers, chopped celery, diced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure an even distribution.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, crushed garlic, and ground cumin until well combined.
3
Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
4
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Serve cold or at room temperature for the best taste.
Nutrition Information
5.5g
Fat
10g
Carbs
5g
Protein
3g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cuban Black Bean Salad?
A vibrant Cuban-inspired salad featuring black beans, bell peppers, celery, and a zesty lemon-cumin dressing.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Is the Zesty Cuban Black Bean Salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
What are the primary ingredients in this salad?
The main components are canned black beans, yellow and red bell peppers, celery, red onion, and fresh parsley.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
There are approximately 100 calories per serving.
How much protein does this salad provide?
Each serving contains 5g of protein.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried black beans as long as they are cooked, cooled, and drained before assembly.
How long should I let the salad sit before serving?
It is recommended to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
What kind of dressing is used for this recipe?
The dressing is a whisked mixture of lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, crushed garlic, and ground cumin.
How much fat is in this recipe?
This salad contains 5.5g of fat per serving.
How much fiber is in a serving?
There are 3g of fiber per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains 10g of carbohydrates.
Can I substitute lemon juice with lime juice?
Yes, lime juice works perfectly and maintains the Cuban flavor profile.
Is there any garlic in the recipe?
Yes, the recipe calls for one clove of crushed garlic in the dressing.
What kind of bell peppers should I use?
The recipe uses half of a yellow bell pepper and half of a red bell pepper for color and crunch.
Is this salad served hot or cold?
It is best served cold or at room temperature.
What herbs are used in the salad?
Fresh parsley is used for added freshness and flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely, ingredients like corn, avocado, or chopped cucumber would be great additions.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Is the salad spicy?
No, it is zesty and savory. If you prefer heat, you can add diced jalapeños.
What amount of cumin is needed?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin.
How much red onion is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of chopped red onion.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is very easy as it requires only chopping and mixing without any actual cooking.
Can this be served as a main dish?
Yes, it can be served as a light meal due to its protein and fiber content.
What can I serve alongside this salad?
It pairs excellently with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even inside a wrap.
Do I need to rinse the canned beans?
Yes, it is recommended to drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium and starch.
Can I make this salad a day in advance?
Yes, making it ahead allows the flavors to develop even further in the refrigerator.
How should leftovers be stored?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
Can I use cilantro instead of parsley?
Yes, cilantro is a popular alternative that works very well with these flavors.
Is this salad a healthy option?
Yes, it is a nutritious option packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins from the fresh vegetables.