Sweet Potato Black Bean Fiesta Salad
This salad is a bright and flavorful side dish that's perfect for summer gatherings. The sweet potatoes are roasted until they're tender and slightly caramelized, and the black beans add a hearty and protein-rich element. The red onion and green bell pepper provide a bit of crunch and freshness, while the cilantro and parsley add a bright herbal note. The lime juice and olive oil dressing ties everything together, and the salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for later.
This salad was inspired by a trip to Mexico, where I had a similar dish at a local restaurant. I was immediately impressed by the combination of flavors and textures, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. After a few attempts, I finally came up with this recipe, which I think is even better than the original. The roasted sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and complexity that really sets this salad apart.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Fiesta Salad Sweet Potato Black Bean Fiesta Salad Sweet Potato Black Bean Fiesta Salad Sweet Potato Black Bean Fiesta Salad
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil and spread on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast in preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until tender.
  4. Combine sweet potatoes, black beans, red onion, green bell pepper, cilantro, parsley, olive oil, and lime juice in a large bowl.
  5. Toss to coat.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Why It Works
  • Roasting the sweet potatoes until they're slightly caramelized gives them a delicious smoky flavor and a tender texture.
  • The black beans add protein and heartiness to the salad.
  • The red onion and green bell pepper provide a bit of crunch and freshness.
  • The cilantro and parsley add a bright herbal note.
  • The lime juice and olive oil dressing ties everything together and adds a touch of acidity.