Looking for the perfect dish to bring to your next backyard BBQ, picnic, or beach gathering? This vibrant Summer Mango Black Bean Quinoa Salad is packed with fresh ingredients, plant-based protein, and bright citrus flavor. It comes together in under 30 minutes, travels well, and tastes even better after it’s had time to chill. Whether you serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a light lunch, it’s a refreshing way to celebrate the flavors of summer.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, diced (add just before serving)
For the Lime Vinaigrette
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the quinoa according to the package directions using water or vegetable broth. Once cooked, spread it on a baking sheet or large plate to cool quickly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, black beans, mango, tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Fold in the diced avocado just before serving.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.
Make It Your Own
- Add grilled shrimp or diced grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Toss in fresh corn cut straight from the cob.
- Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds for a little crunch.
- Like a little heat? Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Swap the cilantro for fresh parsley if preferred.
Forever FIT Tip
This salad is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. It’s loaded with fiber, plant-based protein, healthy fats, and colorful fruits and vegetables that help keep you satisfied and energized. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or your favorite veggie burger for a complete summer meal—or enjoy it all on its own for a light lunch that tastes like sunshine in a bowl!
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving | Makes 6)
- Calories: ~290
- Protein: 9g
- Fiber: 9g
- Healthy Fats: 12g
- Naturally Gluten-Free
- Dairy-Free
- Vegetarian