
Middle Eastern Black Bean Salad
Prep
15 mins
Cook
30 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite quick weeknight salads that feels fancy but comes together in under an hour. Black beans are packed with fiber and protein, making this dish surprisingly filling and nutritious. What I love most is how budget friendly it is to throw together from pantry staples and whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand. The warm spices like cumin and cayenne give it that authentic Middle Eastern flavor that reminds me of my favorite restaurants, but homemade versions taste so much better. Top it with pomegranate seeds and feta if you're feeling fancy, or skip them on a busy night. Either way, you've got a delicious, wholesome meal ready to enjoy.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 400 gblack beans
- 1 piececucumber(peeled and grated)
- 1 piecered onion(thinly sliced)
- 2 piecestomato(halved)
- 1 bunchparsley(chopped)
- 2 tablespoonslemon juice
- 4 tablespoonsolive oil
- 1 clovegarlic(minced)
- 1 teaspooncumin
- 1 teaspooncayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoonsalt
- 1 teaspoonblack pepper
- 100 gpomegranate seeds
- 100 gcrumbled feta (optional)(crumbled)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine black beans, cucumber, red onion, tomato, and parsley.
Tip: Gently toss to combine.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Tip: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness.
- 3
Pour the dressing over the black bean mixture and toss to coat.
Tip: Make sure everything is well combined.
- 4
Stir in pomegranate seeds.
Tip: If using feta, crumble it into the salad just before serving.
- 5
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tip: You can add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to taste.
- 6
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tip: This will help the flavors to combine and the salad to chill.
- 7
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tip: You can serve this salad as a main dish or as a side dish.
- 8
If serving with feta, sprinkle it on top just before serving.
Tip: This will add a tangy and creamy element to the salad.
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