Roasted Black Beans with Courgette

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 210°C (190°C fan). Pat the courgette slices dry with paper towels to help them roast evenly rather than steam.

   Tip: Drying the courgette prevents excess moisture and helps achieve golden, caramelized edges.

2. 2

   Spread the courgette and red onion slices on a large baking tray. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, season with half the salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.

   Tip: Use a large enough tray so vegetables aren't crowded, allowing better air circulation and browning.

3. 3

   Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the courgette is tender and the edges are lightly charred.

   Tip: The courgette should be golden and slightly caramelized, not soft or mushy.

4. 4

   While the vegetables roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

   Tip: Watch the garlic closely to prevent burning, which would make it bitter.

5. 5

   Stir the smoked paprika and cumin into the garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds to bloom the spices and release their flavors.

   Tip: This step infuses the oil with spice flavor, distributing it evenly throughout the final dish.

6. 6

   Add the drained black beans to the spiced oil along with the remaining salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir gently and warm through for 2-3 minutes.

   Tip: Heating the beans helps them absorb the spice flavors and brings everything to the same temperature.

7. 7

   Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm spiced black beans over the vegetables.

   Tip: Adding warm beans to the hot vegetables keeps the dish at an ideal serving temperature.

8. 8

   Drizzle with fresh lime juice and toss everything together gently but thoroughly. Top with fresh cilantro and taste, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.

   Tip: The lime juice brightens the earthy flavors of the beans and courgette beautifully.