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Fresh Mango Black Bean Salsa in a white bowl with tortilla chips and lime on a wooden surface.
Layla

Mango Black Bean Salsa

A vibrant, sweet-savory salsa that transforms simple chips into a fiesta and makes grilled fish instantly dinner-party worthy.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Calories: 145

Ingredients
  

Produce
  • 2 large mango firm-ripe, diced 1/4 inch
  • 1 red bell pepper diced small
  • 1 jalapeno seeded and minced, or leave seeds for more heat
  • 1/2 cup cilantro fresh, chopped
Pantry & Beans
  • 15 oz black beans can, drained and rinsed well
  • 1/2 cup red onion diced small, rinsed under cold water to mellow
Dressing
  • 3 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed, about 2 limes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
  • 3/4 tsp salt kosher, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp cumin ground, toasted if possible

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Sharp Chef's Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Prep
  1. Dice the mangos into 1/4-inch cubes, working around the flat pit. Rinse the black beans thoroughly in a colander until water runs clear - this removes excess starch and salt so they don't muddy the salsa.
  2. Place diced red onion in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds. This tames the raw bite while keeping the crunch. Shake well to drain.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the diced mango, black beans, rinsed red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeno, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently with your hands or a wide spatula to avoid crushing the mango.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and cumin until emulsified. Pour over the salsa and fold gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust salt or lime - the mango sweetness should balance the tart lime.
  5. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving, or refrigerate up to 4 hours. The flavors meld and deepen as it rests. Serve with tortilla chips, over grilled fish or chicken, or stuffed into tacos.

Notes

Choose mangos that give slightly when pressed but still hold their shape - too soft and they turn to mush; too firm and they taste starchy. For a smoky twist, swap the raw jalapeno for 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, minced. This salsa is best the day it's made; the mango softens and the cilantro dulls after overnight refrigeration.