Caribbean-Inspired Spiced Plantain and Black Bean Salad

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-06 · Updated 2026-05-06

A vibrant, hearty salad combining sweet fried plantains with seasoned black beans and fresh vegetables for a tropical flavor burst. This caribbean-inspired salads (vegetarian, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes pairs ripe plantains, black beans (cooked), red bell pepper into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 medium ripe plantains
• 1 cup black beans (cooked)
• 1 medium red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Peel and slice 2 medium ripe plantains into 1/2-inch thick diagonal pieces. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the plantain slices for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and caramelized, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup cooked black beans, 1 medium diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
4. Step 4: Add the fried plantains to the bean and vegetable mixture, pour over the dressing, and gently toss to coat all the ingredients without breaking up the plantains. Serve immediately or chilled.