Roasted Sweet Potato & Black Bean Salad
A colorful, nutritious salad featuring roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, pepitas, and fresh cilantro, tossed in a zesty lime dressing. High in plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad is easy to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for everyday meals or make-ahead lunches.
Equipment
- 1 sheet tray
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 small jar or container for dressing
- Knife
- cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
- 1 small red onion chopped into 1/4-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup cooked black beans drained and rinsed if using canned
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/4 cup pepitas pumpkin seeds
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for roasting. While the oven is warming, line a sheet tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a touch of olive oil. This will prevent the sweet potatoes and onions from sticking and help them roast evenly.
- Prep Sweet Potatoes and Onion: Peel your sweet potatoes carefully and cut them into uniform 1/4-inch cubes. Consistent sizing ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate and develop a golden-brown exterior. Chop the red onion into similar 1/4-inch pieces. Keeping the onion pieces close in size to the sweet potatoes ensures even roasting and caramelization.
- Season and Toss Vegetables: Place the cubed sweet potatoes and chopped onions in a large bowl or directly on the prepared sheet tray. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon salt over the vegetables. Toss everything thoroughly using a spatula or your hands so that each piece is lightly coated with oil and salt. This step is key for enhancing flavor and promoting caramelization.
- Arrange and Roast: Spread the sweet potatoes and onions in a single layer on the sheet tray, making sure the pieces aren’t crowded. Overcrowding can cause steaming rather than roasting. Transfer the tray to the preheated oven and roast for 35 to 40 minutes. Halfway through, check on the vegetables and gently stir or flip them to ensure even browning. The sweet potatoes are ready when they are tender inside and lightly caramelized on the edges.
- Prepare Zesty Lime Dressing: While the vegetables roast, prepare the dressing. In a small jar or bowl, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the juice of one lime, the lime zest, minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder. Secure the lid on the jar and shake vigorously, or whisk in the bowl until the ingredients are fully emulsified. This dressing will bring bright, tangy, and slightly spicy notes to the salad.
- Combine Roasted Vegetables and Beans: Once the sweet potatoes and onions are done roasting, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. While still warm, gently fold in the cooked black beans, ensuring they are evenly distributed without mashing them. The warmth of the vegetables helps soften the beans slightly and meld the flavors together.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Crunch: Toss in the chopped fresh cilantro and pepitas. The cilantro adds a burst of fresh, herbal flavor, while the pepitas introduce a satisfying crunch and additional healthy fats. Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed.
- Dress and Toss Salad: Drizzle the prepared lime dressing evenly over the salad. Using a large spoon or spatula, toss the salad carefully to coat all ingredients with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, lime juice, or chili powder according to your preference.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad immediately while the sweet potatoes are still warm, allowing the flavors to shine. This salad can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or picnic options. Garnish with extra cilantro or pepitas if desired for added color and texture.
Notes
- Vegetable Prep: Ensure sweet potatoes are cut into uniform cubes for even roasting and consistent texture.
- Bean Choice: Canned black beans work perfectly, but homemade cooked black beans can enhance flavor and freshness.
- Dressing Tip: Whisk or shake the dressing just before serving for a vibrant, emulsified texture.
- Serving Temperature: Best served warm or at room temperature, but can also be chilled for a refreshing summer salad.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad stores well, making it ideal for weekly meal prep. Adjust lime juice before serving if needed.
