Black Bean Salad

Black Bean Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed vegan dish that is both refreshing and hearty -- great as a quick meal or a flavorful side.

   

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes – Cooking Time: 0 minutes – Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cooked black beans or 1/3 15 oz. can black beans
• 1/2 cup cooked red beans or 1/3 15 oz. can kidney beans
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/2 tsp white sugar
• 2 tbps. red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup cooked sweet corn
• 1 mini bell peppers, diced
• 1 tbsp. garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped, fresh cilantro
• 1/3 English cucumber, chopped into 1/4" cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the beans (if not using canned). 

For the red kidney beans: Rinse 1/4 cup of dry red kidney beans under running water. Add them to the Instant Pot with 3/4 cup of water (no soaking required). Secure the lid and pressure cook on high for 40 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural release.

For the black beans: Rinse 1/4 cup of dry black beans under running water. Add them to the Instant Pot with 3/4 cup of water (no soaking required). Secure the lid and pressure cook on high for 35 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural release. 

Step 2

Prepare the frozen corn (if using frozen instead of fresh). Place the frozen corn in a heat-proof bowl, such as ramekin. In a steamer or pot with a trivet, bring about 1/2 inch water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Steam the frozen corn for 10 minutes, before carefully removing with mittens and setting aside.  

Step 3 (Optional)

To mellow the sharpness of raw garlic, lightly sauté it over medium-low heat with 1/2 teaspoon of oil until fragrant and sizzling. Remove from heat and set aside.

 

Step 4

Assemble the black bean salad. In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the cooked black beans, red kidney beans, diced red onion, steamed corn, diced bell peppers, garlic, cucumber cubes, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and mix well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Notes

For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in: 

• 1/2 an avocado, chopped into small chunks 
• 1 cup of sliced cherry tomatoes