5-Ingredient Black Bean Mango Salad (Ready in 10!)

Introduction

Transform ordinary black beans and sweet mangoes into an extraordinary salsa in just 15 minutes! This vibrant Black Bean Mango Salsa is perfect for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or adding a zing to your lunch. We’re all about quick, delicious meals here at RateMyRecipes.com, and this recipe delivers!

Why This Works

This recipe shines because of its incredible flavor balance—the sweetness of mango perfectly complements the earthy black beans, while the lime juice and cilantro add a refreshing kick. It’s incredibly easy to make, using pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it perfect for any skill level. Plus, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian!

Key Ingredients

🥭 2 ripe mangoes, diced
🫘 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
🧅 ½ red onion, finely chopped
🌶️ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
🌿 ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
🍋 2 tablespoons lime juice
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Mangoes: Dice the mangoes into ½-inch pieces. Aim for even sizes for a consistent texture.

2️⃣ Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced mangoes, black beans, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, salt, and cumin.

3️⃣ Taste and Adjust: Give it a taste test! Adjust the lime juice, salt, or jalapeño to your preference.

4️⃣ Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. But hey, if you’re starving, dig in right away!

Handy Tips

Use a sharp knife for easy mango dicing.
If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried cilantro.
For a spicier salsa, leave the jalapeño seeds in.

Heat Control

This recipe doesn’t involve any heat; it’s all about the fresh, vibrant flavors of the ingredients. No stovetop worries here!

Crunch Factor

The red onion provides a lovely crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft mango and beans. If you want even more crunch, consider adding some finely chopped bell peppers.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce.
To make this salsa ahead of time, prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Use a food processor to quickly chop the onion and cilantro if short on time.

Storage Tips

Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This salsa makes a fantastic homemade gift! Present it in a pretty jar, tied with a ribbon, and add a personalized tag.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Tropical Twist: Add a diced pineapple and a splash of coconut milk.
🌟 Spicy Kick: Increase the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
🌟 Citrus Burst: Add the zest of one lime for extra citrusy flavor.
🌟 Avocado Creaminess: Stir in ½ of a ripe avocado for a richer, creamier salsa.

Troubleshooting

Too Tart: If your salsa is too tart, add a pinch of sugar or a teaspoon of honey to balance the acidity.
Too Bland: If your salsa lacks flavor, add more lime juice, salt, or cumin.

FAQ

Can I freeze this salsa? While freezing isn’t ideal, you can freeze it for up to two months. The texture might change slightly upon thawing.
What can I serve this salsa with? This salsa is delicious with tortilla chips, grilled chicken or fish, tacos, burritos, or as a topping for grilled vegetables.
Can I use frozen mango? It’s best to use fresh mango for optimal flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure it’s completely thawed and drained before adding it to the salsa.
How long does it last? Store leftover salsa in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Black Bean Mango Salsa is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Try it out and share your delicious creations with us on RateMyRecipes.com! We can’t wait to see your photos!