Mango Black Bean Salsa is a vibrant, fresh, and incredibly versatile mix of sweet tropical mango, hearty black beans, crisp corn, tangy red onion, fragrant cilantro, a subtle kick of spicy jalapeño, and bright lime juice. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser, perfect for scooping up with your favorite tortilla chips or elevating a variety of dishes with its sensational fusion of flavors.

The Ultimate Mango Black Bean Salsa: Your Go-To Fresh & Flavorful Recipe

This Mango Black Bean Salsa isn’t just a recipe; it’s a summer essential! Its irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and tangy notes makes it a perfect standalone snack or a dynamic addition to countless meals. From a light, refreshing appetizer to a vibrant topping for your main course, this salsa brings a burst of sunshine and incredible flavor to every bite. I often find myself making batch after batch, ensuring a fresh supply in my fridge throughout the warmer months.

Why This Mango Black Bean Salsa Is Your New Favorite

There’s a clear reason why this particular mango and black bean salsa has become a consistent favorite in countless kitchens. Its widespread appeal lies in its straightforward preparation, its exquisite flavor profile, and its sheer adaptability. Here’s why you’ll undoubtedly want to add it to your culinary repertoire, and why it consistently vanishes quickly, especially with kids around!

• A Symphony of Fresh Flavors: Every spoonful is an explosion of taste. The succulent sweetness of tropical mango perfectly balances the earthy richness of black beans, while crisp fresh corn, sharp red onion, zesty lime, and a hint of fiery jalapeño create a harmonious symphony that awakens the palate.
• Incredibly Versatile for Any Meal: Beyond its classic role as a dip for tortilla chips, this vibrant salsa transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary meals. It’s a phenomenal topping for grilled chicken, flaky salmon, or savory flank steak, adding a fresh, bright contrast to rich proteins.
• More Than Just a Dip: Think beyond chips! Spoon it over black bean quesadillas for an added layer of flavor and texture. Mix it into a crisp green salad alongside a refreshing Cilantro-Lime Dressing for a light and satisfying lunch. It also makes a fantastic addition to grain bowls with quinoa or farro, or as a vibrant topping for charred tortillas spread with creamy guacamole.
• Healthy & Wholesome Indulgence: Crafted with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, this salsa is naturally nutritious. It’s packed with essential vitamins, dietary fiber, and healthy fats, making it a guilt-free pleasure you can enjoy by the spoonful. It’s also naturally vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
• Effortlessly Quick & Easy: With minimal cooking required, you can whip up a batch of this vibrant salsa in under 20 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for impromptu gatherings, a last-minute potluck contribution, or a quick, healthy snack when hunger strikes.

You’ll love how this simple recipe consistently delivers big, fresh flavors, making it a staple in your home just as it is in mine!

Key Ingredients for an Unforgettable Mango Black Bean Salsa

The secret to this salsa’s incredible appeal lies in the quality and freshness of its simple components. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to contribute to a balanced and refreshing flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece and some essential tips for preparation:

• Black Beans: Canned black beans are a convenient and excellent choice. Always remember to drain them thoroughly and rinse them under cold, running water. This crucial step removes excess sodium and any canning liquid, ensuring a cleaner taste. For those who love to cook from scratch, homemade cooked black beans can offer an even deeper, more nuanced flavor.
• Fresh Sweet Corn: The crisp sweetness of fresh corn kernels is unparalleled in this salsa. Carefully cut them directly from the cob for a delightful raw crunch. If you prefer a smoky depth and a slightly softer texture, consider grilling or charring the corn before adding it. When fresh corn isn’t in season, thawed frozen corn is a perfectly acceptable and delicious substitute.
• Red Onion: Finely diced red onion provides a sharp, piquant flavor that beautifully complements the other ingredients. If you find raw red onion too intense, a simple trick is to soak the diced onion in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes. This mellows its intensity without sacrificing its characteristic bite.
• Cilantro: This aromatic herb is vital for its fresh, bright, and slightly citrusy notes. Ensure it’s thoroughly rinsed and dried. Finely chop both the leaves and the tender stems to maximize flavor distribution throughout the salsa.
• Minced Jalapeño: This ingredient is key for introducing that perfect touch of heat. The amount of jalapeño and whether to include its seeds and white membranes (ribs) is entirely up to your personal spice preference. For a milder salsa, remove all seeds and ribs. For those who crave more heat, leave some or all of them in. Always handle jalapeños with caution, ideally wearing gloves, to prevent skin or eye irritation.
• Lime Juice & Zest: Freshly squeezed lime juice is absolutely essential for its bright, tangy acidity, which cuts through the sweetness and enlivens all the other flavors. To extract the maximum amount of juice, roll the lime firmly on a countertop before slicing. Don’t forget to zest the lime before juicing for an extra layer of fragrant citrus aroma and flavor.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil acts as a binder, creating a cohesive texture and adding a subtle, fruity richness that beautifully complements the fresh ingredients.
• Honey: This natural sweetener plays a crucial role in balancing the tartness of the lime and enhancing the inherent sweetness of the mango. Adjust the quantity based on the ripeness of your mangoes and your desired level of sweetness.
• Cumin, Salt, and Pepper: These staple seasonings elevate the overall taste of the salsa. Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy depth, while salt is critical for enhancing and bringing out the best in all the other flavors. A final pinch of salt can make a surprising difference in brightening the entire dish, so always taste and adjust seasonings to perfection.

Mastering Your Mangoes: From Selection to Perfect Dicing

Since mango is undoubtedly the star of this tropical black bean salsa, understanding how to select and prepare them is fundamental to achieving the best possible outcome. A perfectly ripe mango will transform your salsa from merely good to absolutely phenomenal.

• Choosing the Perfect Mango: When selecting mangoes, resist the urge to judge solely by color, as varieties differ greatly in their ripeness indicators. Instead, gently press the mango. A ripe mango should yield slightly to gentle pressure, feeling soft but not mushy.
• The Scent Test for Ripeness: Another reliable indicator of ripeness is its aroma. A perfectly ripe mango will emit a sweet, fruity fragrance, particularly near the stem end. Conversely, avoid any mangoes with a sour or alcoholic smell, which suggests that the fruit is over-ripe or beginning to ferment.
• Popular Varieties and Their Characteristics: Understanding different mango varieties can enhance your salsa experience:
  • Ataulfo (Honey Mango): These smaller, kidney-shaped mangoes transition to a vibrant golden yellow when ripe. They are prized for their incredibly rich, sweet flavor and smooth, virtually fiber-free flesh, making them an ideal choice for salsas.
  • Tommy Atkins: Typically large and oval-shaped, these mangoes feature a striking red blush over green and yellow skin. They possess a firm flesh and offer a sweet, slightly tart flavor profile.
  • Kent: Distinguishable by their mostly green skin with hints of red or yellow, Kent mangoes are exceptionally juicy and sweet, characterized by minimal fibers.
  • Keitt: Large and oval, Keitt mangoes remain predominantly green even when fully ripe, though they might develop a subtle yellow undertone. They are celebrated for their intense sweetness and delightfully juicy, fiber-free flesh.
• How to Ripen Mangoes Faster: If your chosen mangoes are still quite firm, don’t despair! You can expedite the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature. The natural ethylene gas released by the fruit will help it ripen more quickly. Remember to check them daily for desired softness.
• Effortless Mango Cutting: While cutting a mango might seem a bit challenging at first, it becomes quite simple with a bit of practice. The primary goal is to cleanly separate the luscious flesh from the large, flat pit. For a comprehensive visual guide and step-by-step instructions on how to cut a mango safely and efficiently, consider consulting a dedicated resource. Once the flesh is freed, dice it into uniform, bite-sized pieces perfect for your salsa.

How To Make the Perfect Mango Black Bean Salsa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delightful salsa is incredibly straightforward, primarily involving precise chopping and gentle mixing. Follow these steps for a vibrant, flavorful, and perfectly textured result every time:

1. Prepare the Corn: Begin by preparing your corn. If you’re using fresh corn on the cob, carefully cut the kernels off using a sharp knife. If opting for frozen corn, ensure it’s fully thawed before adding it to the salsa. You have the choice to keep the corn raw for maximum crispness or, for a more nuanced flavor and softer bite, you can briefly grill or char it.
2. Meticulously Dice All Ingredients: The key to a harmonious salsa where every flavor shines is uniform dicing. Take your time to finely dice the red onion, ripe mango, jalapeño, and cilantro. Aim for small, consistent pieces so that each spoonful offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures. Remember the tip about soaking red onion if you prefer a milder taste.
3. Combine in a Spacious Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the prepared corn, the thoroughly drained and rinsed black beans, the beautifully diced mango, red onion, chopped cilantro, and the minced jalapeño.
4. Craft the Dressing & Season: To the bowl, add the freshly squeezed juice and zest of the lime, the good quality olive oil, honey, and ground cumin. Season generously with salt and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. As a starting point, I typically add about 1/2 teaspoon of salt, but this can be adjusted.
5. Gently Mix to Combine: Using a large spoon or a spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing. Exercise care to avoid mashing the delicate mango pieces, which should retain their shape and texture.
6. Taste and Fine-Tune: This is a crucial step! Taste the salsa and critically evaluate its flavor profile. Does it need more tang? Add a little extra lime juice. Could it use more brightness to make the flavors pop? A bit more salt can work wonders. If your mangoes are on the less sweet side, a touch more honey can bring everything into perfect balance.
7. Allow Flavors to Meld: For the most exquisite flavor experience, cover the bowl and allow the salsa to rest in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes, or even longer (up to an hour) if time permits. This brief resting period is vital as it allows all the delicious flavors to fully marry and deepen, resulting in a more integrated and profound taste.
8. Toss and Serve: Just before serving, give the salsa another gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients and flavors. Serve it immediately with a generous bowl of crispy tortilla chips for dipping, or use it to top your favorite grilled proteins and Mexican-inspired dishes.

Pro Tips for Elevating Your Mango Black Bean Salsa

• Freshness is Paramount: The ultimate flavor of your salsa hinges on the freshness of your ingredients. Always opt for the ripest mangoes, the crispest corn, and the most vibrant cilantro you can find.
• Customize Your Spice Level: Tailor the heat to perfectly match your preference. For a milder salsa, ensure you remove all seeds and white membranes from the jalapeño. If you crave more of a kick, leave some or all of them in. For an adventurous palate, a tiny pinch of finely minced habanero or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can be added.
• Employ the Right Kitchen Tools: Using appropriate tools can make a significant difference in efficiency and result. A fine grater is indispensable for zesting citrus, ensuring you capture all its fragrant oils. A good hand juicer will extract every last drop of juice from your limes. And, of course, a sharp chef’s knife is essential for precise, efficient, and uniform dicing of all your vegetables and fruit.
• Allow the Flavors to Mellow: While it’s tempting to dive in immediately, those recommended 10-15 minutes of resting time are truly transformative. This brief period allows the individual flavors to intermingle and deepen, creating a more complex and integrated taste experience.

Versatile Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Mango Black Bean Salsa

This vibrant homemade salsa is far too delicious to be limited to just chips! Its irresistible sweet, tangy, and savory profile makes it an incredible companion to a wide array of dishes, transforming everyday meals into something special. Here are some inspiring ways to enjoy your fresh creation:

• The Quintessential Dip: The most classic way to enjoy this salsa is, of course, with your favorite crispy tortilla chips. It’s an undeniable crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
• Elevate Grilled Dishes: Spoon a generous helping over grilled fish like salmon, cod, or mahi-mahi. It also pairs wonderfully with lean grilled meats such as marinated chicken breasts, flank steak, or pork tenderloin. The salsa’s freshness and acidity beautifully cut through the richness of the proteins.
• Tacos, Burritos, and Quesadillas: Revolutionize your taco night! This salsa is phenomenal on fish tacos, shrimp tacos, chicken tacos, or black bean quesadillas. It adds a burst of flavor, a refreshing crunch, and a delightful contrast of textures.
• Grain Bowls and Fresh Salads: Transform a simple grain bowl (using quinoa, farro, or brown rice) into a complete and exciting meal by adding a few generous scoops of this salsa. It also serves as a fantastic topping for crisp green salads, especially when paired with a bright Cilantro-Lime Dressing.
• Avocado Toast & Brunch: For a gourmet twist on breakfast or brunch, spread creamy guacamole onto charred tortillas or a slice of your favorite toast, then top generously with a spoonful of mango black bean salsa.
• A Vibrant Side Dish: Serve it alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired entrees as a fresh, flavorful, and colorful side that complements almost any meal.

Explore More Fresh Salsa Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the vibrant and refreshing flavors of this Mango Black Bean Salsa, you’re in for a treat! Fresh salsas are a fantastic and healthy way to celebrate seasonal produce and add a burst of flavor to any meal. They are endlessly customizable and always a welcome addition to any table. Here are some other delightful salsa recipes to inspire your culinary adventures and keep your palate excited:

• Pineapple Salsa: A tropical delight that typically features the sweet tang of pineapple beautifully complemented by colorful bell peppers and a subtle hint of spice for an exotic twist.
• Avocado Salsa: Experience the creamy richness of ripe avocado expertly mixed with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp red onion, and fresh cilantro for a dip that’s both hearty and incredibly refreshing.
• White Bean Salsa: A heartier and exceptionally flavorful salsa crafted with tender cannellini beans, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic fresh herbs, perfect for adding a Mediterranean flair to your meal.
• Fruit Salsa: A sweet and visually stunning medley of various seasonal fruits, often served with crispy cinnamon-sugar pita chips, making it a delightful dessert or a unique sweet snack.
• Corn Salsa Recipe: This recipe truly highlights the inherent sweetness of fresh corn, combining it with a lively blend of other vibrant vegetables and fragrant herbs, creating a classic and beloved summer favorite.

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Mango Black Bean Salsa

By Chelsea Lords

Mango Black Bean Salsa is a vibrant mix of sweet mango, earthy black beans, crisp corn, and zesty red onion. Toss in fresh cilantro, a jalapeño, and a squeeze of lime for the perfect tangy, refreshing snack. Scoop it up with chips or dig in straight from the bowl!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 12 servings, as an appetizer/side

Video

Ingredients

• 2 ears fresh sweet corn or use frozen, thawed corn; 1-1/2 cups
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans drained and rinsed
• 1 large ripe mango peeled and diced, 1-1/2 cups
• 1/3 cup diced red onion 1/2 medium onion
• 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro 3/4 bunch, see note 1
• 2 tablespoons finely minced jalapeño 1 small pepper, see note 2
• 1 large lime juice and zest
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper
• Tortilla chips optional, for serving

Instructions

1. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off from the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw it. (see note 3).
2. Finely dice the red onion, mango, jalapeño, and cilantro. Aim for small, similar-sized pieces for an evenly distributed salsa.
3. In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and minced jalapeño.
4. To the bowl, add the juice and zest of the lime, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, and salt and pepper (I add 1/2 tsp salt and a tiny pinch of pepper). Gently mix until all the ingredients are combined.
5. Taste the salsa and adjust the flavors to your personal preference. You can add more lime for extra tang or a pinch of extra salt for more flavor.
6. Allow the salsa to rest for about 10–15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Toss the salsa before serving. If desired, serve with tortilla chips for dipping.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: You’ll need most of one bunch of cilantro, depending on the size. To get 1/3 cup of finely chopped cilantro, measure about 1 cup of loosely packed cilantro before it’s diced. To prepare, grab the bunch and twist it to rip off the leaves and stems. You can use the leaves and tender stems for this recipe.
Note 2: You can adjust the spiciness of the salsa by removing the seeds and ribs for a milder flavor, or leaving them in for a spicier kick. When handling jalapeños, wear gloves to avoid getting their oils on your skin, which can cause a burning sensation.
Note 3: I like using fresh sweet corn, cut right off the cob. It delivers a natural sweetness and satisfying crunch. If you prefer a different texture, feel free to grill or char the corn before adding it to the salsa.
Storage: While the salsa is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before enjoying.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving |
Calories: 60kcal |
Carbohydrates: 9g |
Protein: 1g |
Fat: 3g |
Saturated Fat: 0.4g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g |
Sodium: 1mg |
Potassium: 103mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 4g |
Vitamin A: 308IU |
Vitamin C: 12mg |
Calcium: 5mg |
Iron: 0.2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.