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A white bowl filled with colorful Black Bean Edamame Salad garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
Layla

Black Bean Edamame Salad

A protein-packed, colorful salad with creamy beans, snappy edamame, and a bright lime dressing that comes together in minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 245

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 15 oz black beans canned, drained and rinsed
  • 1.5 cups shelled edamame thawed if frozen
  • 1 red bell pepper diced small
  • 0.25 cup red onion finely diced
  • 0.5 cup fresh cilantro roughly chopped
For the Lime Dressing
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice about 2 limes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 0.75 tsp fine sea salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Microplane or fine grater
  • Colander

Method
 

Prep the Vegetables
  1. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear - this removes excess starch and salt. Shake well to dry. If using frozen edamame, run under warm water for 30 seconds to thaw, then drain completely.
  2. Dice the red bell pepper into small, even 1/4-inch pieces so they distribute well. Finely dice the red onion - you want about 2 tablespoons for flavor without overpowering. Roughly chop the cilantro, including some tender stems for extra flavor.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust - the dressing should be bright and tangy, not oily. Add more lime juice if needed.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, edamame, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top and fold gently with a rubber spatula so you don't smash the beans. Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature before serving so the flavors meld.
  2. Taste again and add more salt or lime juice if the flavors taste flat. The salad should be vibrant and well-seasoned. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Notes

For the best texture, use edamame labeled "sweet" or "young" - older edamame can be tough and starchy. The salad keeps well for 3 days refrigerated, though the cilantro will darken; add fresh herbs just before serving if making ahead. For extra crunch, top with toasted pepitas or crushed tortilla chips right before eating.