Spicy Black Bean + Mango Salad (or salsa)

Summertime often means outdoor BBQs and lots of parties and friends. Guacamole is my favorite and condiment and dip of choice; but sometimes life needs a little variety. So I wanted to come up with something more protein-dominant but still light and flavorful, yet unique. 

Mango and black beans are a great combination. I love the sweetness of the mango and the heartiness of the black beans.

Think: sweet, salty and spicy. 

Dip chips into this dip or grab a tortilla and make a lunch out of it. I ate most of it with a spoon; it was that good and light enough to devour. You can add avocado to this if you're looking for more of a meal. 

It's a great Summertime dish because it doesn't have to be heated up or cooked. Dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free.  And most of the ingredients are ones you probably already have on hand. 

SPICY BLACK BEAN + MANGO SALAD (SALSA)

Yields: one soup bowl

INGREDIENTS

1 can black beans

1 ¼ cup diced mango (use one that isn't overly ripe)

½ super spicy jalapeno or 1 whole medium spice jalapeno, chopped

2 tablespoon minced mint and/or cilantro

2 tablespoon finely chopped shallots or red onion

1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar

1 lime, juiced

½ tablespoon olive oil or refined MCT coconut oil (doesn't have the coconut flavor)

pinch sea salt + pepper (to taste)

optional: avocado

DIRECTIONS

+ First, be sure you remove skins and chop everything finely. 

+ In a large bowl, add all of the above ingredients. Note: you don't have to mix the dressing ingredients separately; Just add individually, directly to the salad. 

+ Lightly toss or fold everything together. Adding salt and pepper to taste. Sea salt really brings out the flavors in this salad. So maybe use more than less. 

+ Enjoy as a salad with avocado as well OR grab a bag of tortilla chips and use it as a dip. 

--> Hey, let's connect. If you make this recipe for yourself or your friends, we'd love you to share some images of the party or salad on Instagram! Tag me @julinovotny or hashtag #PureMamas // it would make my day. Feel free to also leave a comment. Did you like the salad? Thanks and happy first day of Summer.