Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico with our delightful "Ensalada del Desierto Desert Salad"! This refreshing dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of nutrition and taste that will transport your taste buds to sun-drenched landscapes. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a colorful salad packed with protein, healthy fats, and zesty lime that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick and healthy lunch, this salad is sure to impress. Dive into the recipe and unlock the secrets to this deliciously simple dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all fresh ingredients by washing and chopping them carefully. Rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold water and drain completely.
- If corn is not already cooked, quickly sauté or steam the corn kernels until they are bright and tender. Allow to cool to room temperature.
- Dice the red bell pepper into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and dice into similar-sized pieces as the bell pepper. To prevent browning, toss avocado pieces with a small amount of lime juice.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained black beans, cooled corn, diced red bell pepper, and avocado pieces.
- Finely chop fresh cilantro leaves, ensuring no large stems remain, and add to the bowl.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the entire mixture, ensuring even coverage. The acid will help prevent avocado from browning and add bright flavor.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently fold all ingredients together to mix without mashing the avocado.
- Cover and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light main course, optionally garnishing with additional cilantro leaves.
Tips
- Ingredient Prep: Take your time when washing and chopping the fresh ingredients. Uniform sizes not only enhance the presentation but also ensure each bite is a perfect mix of flavors.
- Corn Cooking: If you're using fresh corn, grilling it can add a delightful smoky flavor. Just be sure to let it cool before adding it to the salad.
- Preventing Avocado Browning: To keep your avocado looking fresh, toss it in a bit of lime juice as soon as you dice it. This not only prevents browning but also enhances the salad's overall flavor.
- Flavor Enhancement: For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to give your salad a spicy twist.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill for 10-15 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. Consider serving it in taco shells for a fun twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
