Island-Style Sweet Plantain and Black Bean Salad

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-27 · Updated 2026-04-27

A Caribbean-inspired fusion salad combining caramelized sweet plantains with hearty black beans, crisp red onion, fresh cilantro, and a bright tangy lime dressing. While plantains and black beans are beloved staples across the Caribbean, this salad-format preparation is a modern fusion dish rather than a traditional Caribbean recipe. Refreshing, vibrant, and plant-based — perfect as a side or light meal. This Caribbean recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 20 minutes, pairs ripe plantains, black beans, red onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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 large, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch pieces ripe plantains
• 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed black beans
• 1/2 small, thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp for frying plus 2 tbsp for dressing olive oil
• 3 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

The pan we’d use for this → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 2 large peeled and sliced ripe plantains (1/2-inch pieces) and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to make the dressing.
3. Step 3: Add 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed black beans, 1/2 small thinly sliced red onion, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl with dressing. Toss gently to combine.
4. Step 4: Fold in the warm caramelized plantain slices just before serving to maintain texture and enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors blending together.