Black Bean, Feta, Basil and Tomato Summer Salad 🥗🍅

This vibrant salad blends hearty black beans with creamy feta, fresh basil, and juicy tomatoes for a refreshing and nutritious dish that captures the essence of summer. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for your outdoor gatherings, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Feel free to enjoy it on its own, or scoop it up with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch! 🌟

Ingredients

For the salad

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced
• 1 avocado, diced (optional)

For the dressing

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, basil leaves, red onion, and avocado (if using). Gently toss the ingredients together to combine.

🥄 Mixing the ingredients gently will ensure that the beans and tomatoes don’t get mushy.

• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until emulsified.

• Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss lightly to coat all ingredients evenly.

🌿 Letting the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

Variations

• Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal. Both pair nicely with the flavors of the salad. 🐔🍤
• Zesty Citrus: Swap out balsamic vinegar for fresh lime juice and add lime zest for a fresh twist. This adds a burst of brightness that’s perfect for summer! 🍋
• Quinoa Booster: Stir in cooked quinoa for an extra boost of protein and fiber. This makes the salad even heartier and can serve as a more substantial meal. 🌾
• Herb-Infused: Experiment by adding other fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to introduce additional flavors to the salad.

Enjoy this delightful mix of textures and flavors with family and friends, perfect for those warm sunny days! ☀️❤️