Black-Eyed Bean Salad with Vegetables
This vibrant salad celebrates legumes in full color—combining tender black-eyed beans with sautéed broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, eggplant, bell pepper, onions, and garlic, all tossed in olive oil for a wholesome Mediterranean delight.
Ingredients
- 500g black-eyed beans
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste, diluted in water
- Fresh mint leaves (as desired)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt
- Pepper
- Sweet paprika
- 150ml water
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans
Place the beans in a pot, cover them with water, and boil for 10 minutes.
Drain them in a colander and set aside. - Sauté the Base
In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
Add the drained beans and sauté for another 2–3 minutes. - Add the Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, diluted tomato paste, fresh mint leaves, bay leaves, salt, and 150ml of water. - Cook
Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for 35–40 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
If more liquid is needed, add hot water gradually to maintain a gentle simmer. - Finish the Flavor
About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, stir in the pepper and sweet paprika to preserve their aromas.
A Colorful Legume Elixir
Start by cooking the black-eyed beans until soft but not mushy. In a pan, gently sauté broccoli florets, cauliflower, diced carrot, eggplant, sliced bell pepper, onions, and chopped garlic in olive oil. Once tender, toss everything together with the beans and drizzle with raw olive oil for a fragrant finish.
Why It’s Irresistible
This salad balances creamy beans with the crisp-tender bite of mixed vegetables, all enlivened by olive oil’s rich aroma. It’s nutrient-packed, flavorful, and versatile—delicious as a side or a stand-alone plant-based entrée.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or crusty bread, and makes an elegant, healthy option for lunch or buffet spreads.
Serve this hearty dish warm, paired with crusty bread or a simple green salad. The combination of the tender black-eyed beans with the rich, aromatic tomato sauce is a true delight, offering a comforting taste of home-cooked Mediterranean goodness. Enjoy!
Learn More About the Power of Legumes!
Curious about the history, benefits, and global significance of legumes? Click here to read our detailed description on DeliciousPath and discover why these humble ingredients are a cornerstone of healthy and flavorful cooking. Don’t miss out!
