Zesty Cuban Rice and Bean Salad with Avocado
This vibrant and flavorful Zesty Cuban Rice and Bean Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and savory spices. Featuring creamy avocado, hearty black beans, and fluffy white rice, this salad is tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette infused with ground cumin for an extra kick. Perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish at your next gathering, it’s a dish that celebrates the zesty flavors of Cuban cuisine while being healthy and satisfying. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing meal any time of the year!
6
Servings
184
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Avocado
1/2 cup (diced and peeled)
Balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons
Olive oil
1 tablespoon
Ground cumin
1 teaspoon
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Cooked white rice
3 cups
Plum tomato
1 cup (chopped and seeded)
Black beans
1 (15 ounce) can (rinsed and drained)
Fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons (minced)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced avocado, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Gently toss the ingredients with a spatula or spoon until well mixed, being careful not to mash the avocado.
2
Next, add the cooked white rice, chopped plum tomato, and rinsed black beans to the bowl. Gently fold all the ingredients together until the rice is coated with the dressing and the beans, tomato, and avocado are evenly distributed.
3
Stir in the minced cilantro for a fresh herbal note, and give it one last gentle toss.
4
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
4.6
Fat
32.8
Carbs
4.9
Protein
4
Fiber
0
Cholesterol
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cuban Rice and Bean Salad with Avocado?
It is a vibrant salad combining avocado, black beans, and white rice with a cumin-infused balsamic vinaigrette.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe consists of plant-based ingredients and is tagged as vegetarian.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 184 calories.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What kind of beans are used in this Cuban salad?
The recipe calls for one 15-ounce can of black beans, rinsed and drained.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute white rice with cooked brown rice for a higher fiber content.
How much fat is in a serving?
There are 4.6 grams of fat per serving.
Is there any cholesterol in this dish?
No, this recipe contains 0mg of cholesterol.
What spices give this dish its flavor?
Ground cumin, salt, and black pepper are used to season the salad.
How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
It is recommended to refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I serve this salad at room temperature?
Yes, it can be served either chilled or at room temperature.
What type of tomato is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using chopped and seeded plum tomatoes.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 4.9 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this salad?
There are 32.8 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the base of the salad dressing?
The dressing is made from a combination of balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
Does this recipe use fresh herbs?
Yes, minced fresh cilantro is used to add a fresh herbal note.
How much fiber does this salad provide?
Each serving contains 4 grams of dietary fiber.
How should the avocado be prepared?
The avocado should be peeled and diced into 1/2 cup measurements.
Can I substitute the balsamic vinegar?
While balsamic is specified, you could use lime juice or apple cider vinegar for a different citrusy profile.
Is this salad considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy dish featuring fresh vegetables, healthy fats from avocado, and legumes.
What is the serving size?
The recipe is divided into 6 equal servings.
How much salt is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Do I need to cook the rice specifically for this recipe?
The recipe requires 3 cups of already cooked white rice, which can be freshly made or leftover.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, you can easily customize it by adding bell peppers, corn, or red onions.
How do I prevent the avocado from mashing?
Gently toss the ingredients with a spatula or spoon rather than stirring vigorously.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is considered a quick recipe as it mostly involves assembly and chilling.
Can this be served as a main dish?
It works well as a light lunch (main) or as a colorful side dish.
How many ingredients are in the recipe?
There are a total of 10 ingredients.
Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?
Yes, but they must be soaked and cooked thoroughly before being added to the salad.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.