Roasted Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad
This roasted sweet potato and black bean salad is a hearty, healthy, and flavorful dish that's perfect for a summer cookout or a light lunch. The sweet potatoes are roasted until they're tender and slightly caramelized, and the black beans add a boost of protein and fiber. The red onion, cilantro, and mint add a fresh, herbaceous flavor, and the lime juice and olive oil dressing brings it all together. This salad is easy to make and can be served warm or cold, making it a great option for a potluck or picnic.
The inspiration for this salad came to me on a hot summer day when I was looking for a light and refreshing meal. I had some leftover roasted sweet potatoes in the fridge, and I thought they would be the perfect base for a salad. I added some black beans for protein, and some chopped red onion, cilantro, and mint for freshness. I dressed it with a simple lime juice and olive oil dressing, and the result was a salad that was both delicious and satisfying.
Roasted Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad Roasted Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad Roasted Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad Roasted Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  2. Toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and browned.
  3. Combine the roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, red onion, cilantro, and mint in a large bowl.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, and honey. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
  5. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Why It Works
  • Roasting the sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and caramelizes them slightly, giving them a delicious flavor and texture.
  • The black beans add a boost of protein and fiber, making this salad a hearty and filling meal.
  • The red onion, cilantro, and mint add a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens up the salad.
  • The lime juice and olive oil dressing is light and refreshing, and it brings all the flavors together.