Pineapple & Black Bean Salsa
This vibrant Pineapple & Black Bean Salsa is a refreshing blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, offering a delightful chunky texture perfect for scooping or as an accompaniment to grilled dishes.
For 6 servings
Prepare Pineapple: Carefully peel and core the fresh pineapple. Dice the pineapple into small, uniform ½-inch (1.25 cm) cubes. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Rinse Beans: Open the can of black beans, drain thoroughly in a colander, and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Add the rinsed and drained black beans to the bowl with the pineapple.
Dice Aromatics: Finely dice the red onion. For the jalapeño, slice it lengthwise, remove the seeds and white pith for less heat (or leave some for more spice), then mince finely. Add both to the bowl.
Add Herbs & Seasoning: Roughly chop the fresh cilantro and add it to the bowl. Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the ingredients. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If desired, drizzle with olive oil for a smoother texture and added richness.
Combine & Chill: Gently stir all the ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or jalapeño if desired.
Meld Flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop. Chilling also enhances the refreshing quality of the salsa.
Serve: Serve chilled with whole-grain tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or alongside tacos and burritos.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Adjust Heat: For a milder salsa, remove all seeds and white pith from the jalapeño. For more heat, leave some seeds in or add a second jalapeño.
- 2Pineapple Freshness: Always use fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture; canned pineapple can be too soft and sweet.
- 3Resting Time is Key: Don't skip the chilling step! It allows the flavors to deepen and marry, resulting in a much more cohesive and delicious salsa.
- 4Uniform Dice: Dicing all ingredients to a similar size ensures a balanced bite and makes the salsa easier to scoop and enjoy.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Boost
Stir in ½ cup of fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels or finely diced red bell pepper for extra color and sweetness.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Replace half of the cilantro with fresh mint or parsley for a different aromatic profile.
Fruity FusionFruity Fusion
Add ½ cup of diced mango or avocado for an even creamier, more tropical salsa.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Digestive Health
Black beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and satiety.
Immune Support
Pineapple and lime juice are packed with Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports immune function.
Cellular Protection
Cilantro, jalapeños, and red onion contribute various antioxidants and phytonutrients that help protect cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this salsa can be made up to 1 day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld, but the pineapple might soften slightly over time.
