Sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones. With just three wholesome ingredients—sweet potatoes, black beans, and salsa—you can whip up a healthy, flavorful dish that works as a main course, side, or even a meal prep option. Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and natural sweetness, this recipe proves you don’t need a long ingredient list to enjoy something satisfying.
Why This Recipe Works
- Nutritious & balanced: Sweet potatoes provide complex carbs and vitamins, black beans bring protein and fiber, and salsa adds zest and freshness.
- Budget-friendly: All three ingredients are inexpensive, making this dish perfect for families, students, or anyone eating on a budget.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, as taco filling, in burrito bowls, or even as a topping for salads.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup salsa (your favorite brand, mild or spicy)
Instructions
1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the diced sweet potatoes. Cook for about 10–12 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Mix Everything
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cooked sweet potatoes, black beans, and salsa. Stir gently until everything is heated through, about 5 minutes.
3. Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm as a main dish, taco filling, or side. Garnish with optional toppings like avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese for an extra boost of flavor.
Variations & Add-Ons
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar or sprinkle queso fresco on top.
- Meal prep style: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days—great for lunches!
- Turn it into a bowl: Serve over rice or quinoa and top with guacamole for a hearty burrito bowl.
FAQs
Q: Can I roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them?
Yes! Roasting adds a caramelized flavor. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Q: What type of salsa works best?
Any kind—mild, medium, or spicy. Fresh salsa adds brightness, while jarred salsa gives a richer flavor.
Q: Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for most diets.
Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
You can, but fresh sweet potatoes have better texture and flavor.
Sweet potato and black beans with salsa are proof that quick and simple meals can still be incredibly delicious and nourishing. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty lunch, a light dinner, or a filling for your favorite wraps, this 3-ingredient recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.