Ham and Black Bean Blitz

Ham and Black Bean Blitz Recipe - Delicious & Flavorful

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ham and Black Bean Blitz is a delicious and nutritious salad that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional black bean salad, incorporating ham for added protein and flavor. It is a popular dish in many Latin American countries, where black beans are a staple ingredient in many dishes.

Ingredients

3 cups of cooked rice, cooled to room temperature
1 15- to 16 oz (454 g) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium-sized red onion, chopped
1 cup of cubed jicama (cut into 0.13 inch cubes)
0.5 cup of sliced black olives
0.5 cup of diced red bell pepper
0.5 cup of diced green bell pepper
0.25 cup of olive oil, divided
0.75 cup (4 oz (113 g)) of cubed cooked ham
3 tbsp of red wine vinegar
1 clove of garlic, minced
0.5 tsp of ground cumin
0.5 tsp of chili powder
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of ground black pepper

How to prepare

Combine rice, beans, onion, jicama, and peppers in a large bowl; set aside.
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ham; cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add to the rice mixture.
Combine the remaining 3 tbsp of oil, vinegar, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a small jar with a lid. Shake to blend. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.

Variations

Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
Swap out the ham for cooked chicken or shrimp for a different flavor profile.
Mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium.

- For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or herbs for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham and Black Bean Blitz as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish for a barbecue or picnic.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires minimal cooking, making it a quick and easy meal option. Simply combine the ingredients in a bowl and toss with the dressing for a delicious salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or dressings. You can also use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Ham and Black Bean Blitz can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply toss with the dressing just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu for a complete meal. Serve with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for added crunch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham and Black Bean Blitz contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham and Black Bean Blitz contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, making it a great source of energy for your day.

Fats

With just 10 grams of fat per serving, this dish is a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Proteins

This recipe provides a generous 15 grams of protein per serving, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham and Black Bean Blitz is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron from the black beans and vegetables.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check labels for any potential allergens in specific brands of ingredients.

Summary

Overall, Ham and Black Bean Blitz is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham and Black Bean Blitz is a flavorful and nutritious salad that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a rainy day in the small town of Oakville, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my grandmother. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Ham and Black Bean Blitz caught my eye. The combination of savory ham, earthy black beans, and a hint of spice seemed like the perfect comfort food for a chilly day.

I had never heard of Ham and Black Bean Blitz before, but I was intrigued. I could almost taste the flavors as I read through the ingredients and instructions. I decided then and there that I would make this dish for dinner that night.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients from my pantry and set to work in the kitchen. As I diced the ham and sautéed the onions, the aroma of the cooking food filled the air. I added the black beans, tomatoes, and spices, letting the flavors meld together as the dish simmered on the stove.

When it was finally ready, I ladled the steaming mixture into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. I couldn't wait to taste my creation.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of rich flavors and comforting warmth. The ham was tender and smoky, the black beans creamy and satisfying. The spices added a kick of heat that lingered on my tongue. It was a perfect balance of textures and tastes, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire.

I shared the dish with my family that night, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My husband even went back for seconds, which was high praise indeed. I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had successfully recreated a recipe that had captured my imagination.

In the days and weeks that followed, I made Ham and Black Bean Blitz again and again, tweaking the ingredients and proportions to suit my taste. I experimented with different types of ham and beans, added more spices, and even tried serving it over rice for a heartier meal. Each version was a delight to eat, and I found myself craving the dish on a regular basis.

I soon discovered that I was not the only one who loved Ham and Black Bean Blitz. Friends and neighbors who came over for dinner would ask for the recipe, and I happily shared it with them. It became a favorite among my circle of acquaintances, and I was always pleased to hear how much they enjoyed making it themselves.

Over the years, I continued to make Ham and Black Bean Blitz for special occasions and everyday meals alike. It was a dish that never failed to impress, and I loved the sense of satisfaction that came from serving something so delicious to my loved ones.

As I grew older, I realized that the recipe for Ham and Black Bean Blitz had become a part of my culinary legacy. It was a dish that I had discovered and perfected on my own, drawing inspiration from the world around me. I cherished the memories of the rainy day when I first stumbled upon the recipe, and I knew that it would always hold a special place in my heart.

Now, as I pass on my recipes to the next generation, I make sure to include Ham and Black Bean Blitz among them. I hope that my grandchildren will find as much joy in cooking and sharing this dish as I have. And who knows? Perhaps one day, they will create their own signature recipe that will become a beloved tradition in our family.

But for now, I am content to savor the memories of that rainy day in Oakville, when I first discovered the magic of Ham and Black Bean Blitz. It is a dish that will always remind me of the joy and creativity that cooking can bring, and I am grateful for the experiences and flavors that have enriched my life.