Save A zesty, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring spicy Pepper Jack cheese cubes paired with a vibrant, fresh black bean salsa.
I love serving this at parties because it always gets rave reviews and it's so quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- Cheese: 200 g (7 oz) Pepper Jack cheese, cut into 1.5 cm (½ inch) cubes
- Salsa: 1 can (425 g / 15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- Salsa: 1 medium ripe tomato, diced
- Salsa: ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- Salsa: 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
- Salsa: ½ red bell pepper, diced
- Salsa: 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salsa: Juice of 1 lime
- Salsa: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Salsa: ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salsa: ½ tsp sea salt
- Salsa: ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish & Serving: Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving (optional)
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Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese:
- Arrange the Pepper Jack cheese cubes on a serving platter Cover and chill while making the salsa
- Make the Salsa:
- In a medium bowl combine black beans diced tomato red onion jalapeño red bell pepper and cilantro
- Dress the Salsa:
- In a small bowl whisk together lime juice olive oil cumin salt and black pepper Pour over the bean mixture and toss gently to coat
- Assemble & Serve:
- Spoon the black bean salsa alongside or over the cheese cubes Serve immediately with tortilla chips or crackers if desired
Save This recipe always brings my family together for a fun appetizer before dinner.
Notes
For extra flavor add diced avocado to the salsa just before serving Substitute Monterey Jack or cheddar if Pepper Jack is unavailable Pair with a crisp lager Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity iced tea
Required Tools
Sharp knife Cutting board Mixing bowls Spoon or spatula Serving platter
Nutritional Information
Calories 210 Total Fat 12 g Carbohydrates 13 g Protein 10 g
Save This appetizer is perfect for any occasion and can be prepared in under 20 minutes.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute Pepper Jack cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack or cheddar cheeses work well if Pepper Jack is unavailable, maintaining a creamy texture with mild to moderate spice.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
The main ingredients are gluten-free, but if serving with chips or crackers, choose certified gluten-free options to avoid contamination.
- → How can I enhance the salsa's flavor?
Adding diced avocado just before serving adds creaminess and richness to the fresh, zesty salsa.
- → What drinks pair well with this appetizer?
A crisp lager, Sauvignon Blanc, or fruity iced tea complement the spicy and fresh flavors beautifully.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
The cheese cubes can be chilled in advance, and the salsa can be mixed earlier and refrigerated to enhance flavors before serving.
