Roasted Pumpkin and Black Bean Salad
This roasted pumpkin and black bean salad is a healthy and delicious side dish that's perfect for fall. The pumpkin is roasted until tender and slightly browned, and then combined with black beans, red onion, cilantro, and parsley. The result is a salad that's both flavorful and satisfying.
I first developed this recipe a few years ago when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover pumpkin. I had roasted a pumpkin for Halloween, and I had a lot of leftover flesh that I didn't want to go to waste. I decided to try roasting the pumpkin with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and then combining it with some black beans, red onion, cilantro, and parsley. The result was a salad that was both delicious and satisfying. I've been making this salad ever since, and it's always a hit with my family and friends.
Roasted Pumpkin and Black Bean Salad Roasted Pumpkin and Black Bean Salad Roasted Pumpkin and Black Bean Salad Roasted Pumpkin and Black Bean Salad
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 medium or 1/2 large sugar pumpkin (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
  2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp. Cut the pumpkin into 1-inch cubes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin cubes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
  4. Spread the pumpkin cubes on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
  5. While the pumpkin is roasting, rinse and drain the black beans.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the roasted pumpkin, black beans, red onion, cilantro, and parsley.
  7. Toss to combine and serve.
  8. Enjoy!
Why It Works
  • Roasting the pumpkin brings out its natural sweetness and caramelizes its edges.
  • The black beans add protein and fiber to the salad.
  • The red onion adds a bit of sharpness and crunch.
  • The cilantro and parsley add freshness and brightness.
  • The combination of all of these ingredients creates a salad that's both flavorful and satisfying.