Black Bean Salad Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Looking for a vibrant, nutritious, and flavorful salad that’s completely plant-based? This Black Bean Salad Recipe Vegan is exactly what you need!

It’s a colorful medley of black beans, fresh vegetables, and zesty herbs, all tossed together with a light and tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at your next barbecue, or a refreshing snack, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based meals, this black bean salad will quickly become a favorite. The combination of creamy black beans and crisp veggies with a citrusy dressing creates a harmonious balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—customize it with your favorite add-ins or enjoy it as is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan black bean salad is a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Easy and Quick: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days.
  • Protein-Packed: Black beans provide a rich source of plant-based protein.
  • Fresh and Flavorful: Crisp veggies and a zesty dressing make each bite delightful.
  • Versatile: Serve it as a side, main dish, or wrap filling.
  • Diet-Friendly: Gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-friendly with no added sugars or oils.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, omit for oil-free version)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced for a spicy kick

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Citrus juicer or reamer
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Mixing spoon or spatula

Instructions

  1. Prepare the black beans: If using canned black beans, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and drain well. If cooking from dried beans, soak and cook according to package instructions until tender.
  2. Chop the vegetables: Dice the red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and if using, mince the jalapeño. Cut the avocado just before mixing to avoid browning.
  3. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil (if using), ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  4. Combine all ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, add the black beans, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, corn, cilantro, and jalapeño (optional). Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Add avocado last: Fold in the diced avocado carefully to keep it intact and creamy throughout the salad.
  6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired. Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: For extra texture and flavor, add crunchy roasted pepitas or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can also swap out the cilantro for fresh parsley or basil for a different herbal note.

  • Make it a meal: Add cooked quinoa or brown rice to boost the fiber and make the salad more filling.
  • Change up the veggies: Try diced cucumber, shredded carrots, or radishes for extra freshness.
  • Heat it up: Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for smoky heat.
  • Oil-free option: Skip the olive oil and use extra lime juice and a splash of vegetable broth for moisture.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the salad minus the avocado a day in advance for easy meal prep. Add avocado just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 13 g
Carbohydrates 38 g
Dietary Fiber 12 g
Total Fat 9 g
Saturated Fat 1.5 g
Sodium 250 mg
Vitamin C 45% DV
Iron 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

This black bean salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:

  • Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues.
  • Use it as a filling for vegan tacos or burritos for a nutritious lunch.
  • Top it on leafy greens for a hearty salad bowl.
  • Pair it with tortilla chips for a healthy snack or appetizer.
  • Mix it with cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a complete meal.

For more delicious plant-based ideas, check out our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or try our tangy Chipotle Black Beans And Rice Recipe to complement your salad perfectly.

Conclusion

The Black Bean Salad Recipe Vegan is a delightful blend of nutrition, flavor, and ease that makes it a staple for any plant-based kitchen. Its rich protein content from black beans, combined with the freshness of vegetables and vibrant dressing, offers a dish that’s as satisfying as it is healthy.

Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a side for dinner, or a potluck contribution, this salad fits every occasion.

Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences, and remember that eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. For more inspiring recipes, explore our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a rich vegan pasta sauce or indulge in the sweet delight of our Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe as a guilt-free dessert.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Black Bean Salad Recipe Vegan

Description: A refreshing and protein-packed black bean salad perfect for a quick vegan meal. Loaded with fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, corn, and cilantro.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Fold in the diced avocado carefully.
  5. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 30 g

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Black Bean Salad Recipe Vegan”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A refreshing and protein-packed black bean salad perfect for a quick vegan meal. Loaded with fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing.”, “prepTime”: “PT15M”, “cookTime”: “PT0M”, “totalTime”: “PT15M”, “recipeYield”: “4 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed”, “1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved”, “1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced”, “1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped”, “1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)”, “1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped”, “1 avocado, diced”, “2 tablespoons lime juice”, “1 tablespoon olive oil”, “1 garlic clove, minced”, “1/2 teaspoon ground cumin”, “Salt and pepper to taste”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “In a large bowl, combine black beans, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, corn, and cilantro.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Fold in the diced avocado carefully.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “220 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “8 g”, “fatContent”: “9 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “30 g”}}

Photo of author

Marta K

Leave a Comment

X