Larger tomatoes like beefsteak, plum, and brandywine may not have hit their stride yet, but I can’t wait any longer to share this simple application of cherry tomatoes. Petite cherry and grape tomatoes like these Sungold and Sweet 100s ripen earlier, making them a great pick for those of us who can’t wait for tomato season any longer. A touch of heat amplifies their sweetness and softens their texture, making them an ideal compliment to a Mexican-inspired combination of seasoned black beans and buttery avocado.
This hearty veggie-packed meal is what I turn to when cravings for a burrito bowl hit; grain-free and vegan, it’s a lighter but no-less-satisfying alternative. I make it most often for dinner — the instructions are scaled for one, but can easily be doubled and even quadrupled — but it’s not out of line midday or even for breakfast. Simple, yet full of flavor, it’s exactly the sort of thing I like to make this time of year.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- About 1 cup cherry tomatoes, larger tomatoes halved
- Kosher salt
- Scant 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 scallion, white and light green parts, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup cooked black beans
- About 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 an avocado, diced
- Hot sauce, to taste
- In a medium skillet, cook cherry tomatoes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until slumped, about 5 minutes; season to taste with salt.
- Meanwhile, heat cumin and scallions in 1/2 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute, add black beans, cook for 2-3 minutes, smashing as you go with a wooden spoon, until heated up. Season to taste with salt (if needed), and add cilantro off the heat.
- Add the tomatoes and black beans to a bowl; top with avocado. Serve with hot sauce.
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