Looking for a vibrant, nutritious dish that bursts with flavor and can be whipped up in just 10 minutes? Say hello to our Vegan Middle Eastern Style Black Bean Salad! This colorful medley of black beans, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of protein and fiber. Perfect as a light meal or a delightful side, this salad will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Middle East with every bite. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the canned black beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess sodium and improve digestibility.
- Finely dice the cucumber into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Mince the red onion into small, delicate pieces to provide a sharp flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- Wash and chop the fresh parsley, ensuring leaves are finely cut to release their aromatic oils and distribute evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed black beans, diced cucumber, minced red onion, and chopped parsley.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a light, zesty dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture, gently tossing to ensure all ingredients are well-coated and seasoned.
- Let the salad rest for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld and develop.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Tips
- Rinse Your Beans: Always rinse and drain your canned black beans thoroughly to wash away excess sodium and enhance their flavor.
- Uniform Cuts: When dicing the cucumber and red onion, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even distribution and a balanced bite in every forkful.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh parsley for the best flavor. The aroma and freshness will elevate your salad significantly.
- Zesty Dressing: For a more pronounced lemon flavor, consider adding a little zest from the lemon peel to your dressing.
- Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes after mixing to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Adjust to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning! Taste your salad before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for your perfect balance.
- Chill for Refreshment: Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing experience, especially on hot days.
- Versatile Serving: This salad is not just a side; enjoy it as a standalone meal, or serve it in wraps or pita bread for a delicious, portable lunch option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
