The first time I had a version of this black bean and avocado salad, I knew I had found a new favorite side dish.
When it comes to BBQ side dishes, I’m really not that big of a fan of mayonnaise-based salads.
Don’t get me wrong… I like them, but when it’s hot out and you’re trying to put out a picnic-type spread, the last thing I want to worry about is whether my potato salad is spoiling from the heat of the sun.
Related: How to Throw the Ultimate Backyard BBQ
That’s why I took to the kitchen to make a few tweaks!
And I’m telling you, with the delicious combo of flavors and the filling ingredients, I have yet to serve this and have any leftovers!
Black Bean Avocado Salad
The first time I had a version of this black bean and avocado salad, I knew I had found a new favorite side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, cut in half
- 1 yellow or orange pepper, diced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, seeded with veins removed then minced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp salt (I like kosher salt for this)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
- 2 avocados, peeled & diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- To make the salad, combine the tomatoes, peppers, beans, onions, and jalapeños together in a bowl.
- Make the dressing separately by whisking together lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture.
- Let the salad marinate for 2 hours before serving, then gently toss the avocados (and cilantro if desired) into the mixture.
So good to eat in SO many ways!
This black bean and avocado salad is a really versatile recipe.
While I’m featuring it here as a side dish, you can use it as an easy filling for soft tacos, as a dip with scoop chips, or as a fresh salsa on top of grilled chicken.
Presentation is everything when you’re putting out a bbq spread. So if you’re throwing a party of your own, you’ll have to check out my top tips for an outdoor summer party!
And if a potluck is on your schedule, I have a bunch of go-to potluck recipes you can make too.
I’d love to hear from you if you try any of my tips or recipes! Leave your comments in the section below and say hi!
From my kitchen to yours,
Jill
