Black Bean & Mango Salad Recipe – Smoked Paprika Lime Dressing

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Black Bean & Mango Salad Recipe – Smoked Paprika Lime Dressing

Introduction

Oh, this salad! It’s seriously one of my go-to recipes when the weather heats up. I first made it for a summer picnic with friends, and it was a huge hit. It’s so fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavour – the sweetness of the mango perfectly balances the smoky paprika and a little kick from the jalapeno. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. You’ll absolutely love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Black Bean & Mango Salad isn’t just delicious; it’s a winner for so many reasons. It’s quick – ready in just 15 minutes! It’s healthy, bursting with vitamins and plant-based protein. And honestly, the flavour combination is just chef’s kiss. It’s a little sweet, a little spicy, a little smoky, and totally addictive.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing salad:

• 1 cup Black Beans
• 2 cups Mangoes, diced
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
• 1 Carrot, grated
• 1 English Cucumber, diced
• 1 Tomato, diced
• 1 Onion, finely chopped
• 1 Jalapeno, finely chopped
• 1.5 teaspoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 0.25 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper Powder
• 1 Lime Juice
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can really elevate this salad.

Black Beans: Types & Preparation
I prefer using canned black beans for convenience, but you can absolutely cook dried black beans. If using canned, be sure to rinse them well under cold water to remove excess sodium. About 170g of black beans equals one cup.

Mangoes: Choosing Ripe Mangoes & Regional Varieties
The mangoes are the star here, so choose wisely! They should be slightly soft to the touch. In India, we have so many amazing varieties – Alphonso, Kesar, and Dasheri are all fantastic if you can find them. Otherwise, any sweet, ripe mango will work beautifully.

Smoked Paprika: Exploring Different Smoked Paprika Varieties
Smoked paprika adds such a lovely depth of flavour. There are different types – sweet, bittersweet, and hot. I usually go for bittersweet, but feel free to experiment! About 1.5g of smoked paprika equals 0.25 teaspoon.

Jalapeno: Heat Levels & Substitutions
Jalapenos can vary in heat. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavour. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can substitute with a small amount of finely chopped bell pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Quality & Flavor Profiles
A good quality extra virgin olive oil really makes a difference in the dressing. Look for one with a fruity, slightly peppery flavour. Around 7.5ml of olive oil equals 1.5 teaspoons.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, diced mangoes, chopped green bell pepper, grated carrot, diced cucumber, diced tomato, and finely chopped onion. Just toss everything together – it’s already looking good!
2. Now, let’s make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chopped jalapeno, smoked paprika, black pepper, lime juice, and salt. Give it a good whisk until everything is nicely combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly. You want to make sure all those lovely ingredients are covered in flavour.
4. Add the finely chopped cilantro and mix lightly. This adds a lovely freshness.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. This step is important – it really lets everything come together.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overmix the salad, or the mangoes will get mushy.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone’s palate is different!
• For a brighter flavour, add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.

Variations

This salad is so versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

Vegan Adaptation
This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your smoked paprika doesn’t contain any hidden animal products.

Gluten-Free Adaptation
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any tortilla chips you serve with it are also gluten-free.

Spice Level Adjustment (Mild to Hot)
Adjust the amount of jalapeno to your liking. For a milder salad, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno. For a spicier kick, leave them in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Summer Salad Variation
My friend Priya loves adding grilled corn to this salad in the summer. It adds a lovely smoky sweetness.

Festival Adaptation (Adding a Festive Touch)
During Diwali, my family likes to add a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a pop of colour and sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas for serving:

• Serve chilled in lettuce cups for a light and refreshing snack.
• Enjoy with tortilla chips for added crunch.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad might get a little softer over time, but it will still taste delicious!

FAQs

What is the best way to dice a mango for this salad?

The easiest way is to stand the mango on its end and slice down either side of the large flat seed. Then, score the flesh in a grid pattern without cutting through the skin. Finally, scoop out the diced mango with a spoon.

Can I make this salad ahead of time? If so, how long will it keep?

Yes, you can! It’s actually better if you let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. However, it’s best enjoyed within 2 days.

What can I substitute for jalapeno if I don’t like spicy food?

You can substitute with a small amount of finely chopped bell pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Or just leave it out altogether!

Are there any other beans I can use instead of black beans?

You can use kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas.

Can this salad be served as a main course? What would you suggest adding?

Absolutely! Add some grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for protein. You could also add some quinoa or brown rice for a more substantial meal.