Why You’ll Love this Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad recipe for its vibrant flavors and invigorating twist. The combination of zesty margarita-marinated tuna and hearty black beans creates a stimulating yet satisfying dish.
Each bite bursts with freshness, thanks to the crunchy veggies and creamy avocado. Plus, the tortilla bowls add a fun, edible element that elevates the whole experience.
Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner, this salad is sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare and offers a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients of Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad
When you’re ready to whip up a delicious Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad, gathering the right ingredients is key. The beauty of this dish lies in the vibrant flavors and fresh components that come together to create a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to make this invigorating salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a lively dinner with friends.
Ingredients:
- 4 tuna steaks
- 1 1/4 cups margarita mix with tequila (minus 1 tablespoon for the beans)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 flour tortillas (or pre-made tortilla bowls)
- 1 medium onion, cut in quarters and thinly sliced
- 1/2 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 2 cups Monterey Jack pepper cheese (or your favorite shredded cheese)
- Black olives, sliced
- 2 avocados, sliced
- 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 small onion, chopped finely
- 1-2 tablespoons garlic, minced (more or less to taste)
- 1 tablespoon salsa
- 1 chipotle in adobo sauce, diced finely
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon margarita mix (for the beans)
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 1/2 chipotle chile in adobo, minced
- 1/2 lime, juiced (for the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, minced finely
Now, while this ingredient list may seem a bit lengthy, don’t let it intimidate you. You might already have some of these staples in your kitchen, like olive oil and garlic.
And if you’re not a fan of certain ingredients, feel free to swap them out. Maybe you prefer a different type of cheese or want to leave out the chipotle for a milder flavor—totally your call.
The key is to make this salad your own. So, grab your shopping list, head to the store, and let’s get ready to create something delicious!
How to Make Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad
Making the Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad isn’t just a cooking task; it’s an experience filled with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a touch of summer magic. Start by marinating the 4 tuna steaks in a generous 1 1/4 cups of margarita mix (don’t forget to reserve 1 tablespoon for the beans). Let those beauties soak up the goodness for about 1 to 2 hours. Just enough time to daydream about the deliciousness that awaits.
While the tuna is getting its flavor on, you can take a moment to prepare your tortilla bowls. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees—this is where the magic happens. Grab 4 flour tortillas (or those fancy pre-made bowls if you’re feeling less ambitious) and push them into oven-safe bowls, giving them a little spray with non-stick spray. Bake them for about 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp. Seriously, the crunch of these bowls will elevate your salad game.
Now, let’s tackle those black beans. In a small sauté pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss in 1 small finely chopped onion and 1-2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re nice and tender. Then, add in the 2 cans of rinsed and drained black beans, along with a tablespoon of salsa, a finely diced chipotle in adobo sauce, the juice of half a lime, the reserved tablespoon of margarita mix, and a tablespoon of cumin. Stir it all together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The aroma will have you questioning why you don’t make beans every day.
While the beans are cooking, you can whip up that creamy sour cream sauce. Mix together 8 ounces of sour cream with the minced half chipotle chile, juice of half a lime, and a tablespoon of fresh cilantro. Give it a good stir and set it aside.
By now, your tuna should be ready to go. Season those steaks with salt and pepper and grill them on high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, aiming for medium to medium-rare. Once done, let them rest for a few minutes while you assemble your salad.
In your tortilla bowls, layer the shredded iceberg lettuce, the sautéed onions, the flavorful beans, and the Monterey Jack cheese. Top it off with the grilled tuna, sliced avocados, black olives, and that luscious sour cream sauce. And just like that, you’re ready to serve up a salad that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Enjoy the colorful explosion of flavors, and remember, you made this masterpiece!
Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad Substitutions & Variations
After assembling that beautiful Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up a bit.
If you’re not into tuna, try grilled shrimp or even grilled chicken for a different protein.
Swap out the black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas for a change in texture. You can also mix in roasted corn or diced bell peppers for added crunch.
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
And don’t forget, fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can elevate the flavors even more.
Enjoy experimenting with these tasty variations!
What to Serve with Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad
What pairs well with a vibrant Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad? I love serving it with a chilled glass of white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the flavors beautifully.
You can also add a side of zesty corn salsa for an extra kick. Fresh tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up any leftovers, and they add a satisfying crunch.
If you want something lighter, a simple cucumber and tomato salad works wonders.
Finally, don’t forget a revitalizing limeade or a classic margarita to enhance that tropical vibe. Enjoy this delicious combination!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing the Margarita Grilled Tuna & Black Bean Salad, keep in mind a few tips to enhance your experience.
First, don’t marinate the tuna for too long; 1-2 hours is perfect. If you’re short on time, pre-made tortilla bowls can save you some hassle.
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro to the salad. When grilling the tuna, aim for medium-rare to keep it tender.
Finally, make your beans ahead of time; they taste even better after sitting. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings, like jalapeños or fresh lime zest, to personalize your salad!