I know Cinco de Mayo isn’t a huge holiday in Mexico like most Americans tend to think, but where I’m from, we love any excuse to party.
After many tequila-filled college celebrations (and today being a Sunday), we’re having a low-key “celebration” at home with tacos, margaritas, and a delicious, refreshing black bean salad.
Using some of the several Ataulfo mangoes in my fridge, this simple salad is a perfect way to lighten up a Mexican-themed fiesta that’s normally full of heavy, grilled meats and lots of cheese.
Black Bean, Mango, and Avocado Salad
(slightly adapted from this Whole Foods recipe)
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 Ataulfo/Champagne mangoes, peeled and cubed
- 1-2 avocados, peeled and cubed (I only had one on hand)
- 3 tbsp freshly-squeezed lime juice, divided
- 1 tsp lime zest
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro + more for garnish
- ¼ tsp agave nectar
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or other neutral oil)
- pinch cayenne pepper
Directions
- Gently toss avocado with 1 tablespoon of the lime juice in a large bowl.
- Add mango and black beans and toss gently.
- Whisk together remaining 2 tablespoons lime juice, zest, cilantro, salt, pepper, cayenne, and agave in a small bowl. Whisk in oil until completely combined to make a thick dressing.
- Pour dressing over black bean/mango/avocado mixture and toss gently.
- Spoon salad onto plates, garnish with cilantro, and serve immediately.
Kate says
Three of my favorite foods in one dish!
Sounds incredible – I’ll have to try to make it soon! Did you get the mangoes from Whole Foods?
foodiecology says
Thanks! I got the mangoes from Sam’s Club, actually. I think Ataulfo mangoes are the best, but I can never find them in other stores. Maybe you’ll have better luck where you live, although other types should be fine, too.
Kitty Miele says
That black bean/ avocado salad sounds great! Will give it a try. ? ( no icon for mango or avocado ?)
Sent from my iPhone
foodiecology says
Thanks, Aunt Kitty. Hope you enjoy it!