Save A zesty, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring spicy Pepper Jack cheese cubes paired with a vibrant, fresh black bean salsa.
This appetizer has become a staple at my family gatherings for its delightful combination and simplicity.
What's for Dinner Tonight? 🤔
Stop stressing. Get 10 fast recipes that actually work on busy nights.
Free. No spam. Just easy meals.
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
- 1 medium ripe tomato, diced
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish & Serving: Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving (optional)
Tired of Takeout? 🥡
Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.
One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
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, sharing laughs and enjoying the vibrant flavors.
Still Scrolling? You'll Love This 👇
Our best 20-minute dinners in one free pack — tried and tested by thousands.
Trusted by 10,000+ home cooks.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, mixing bowls, spoon or spatula, serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (from Pepper Jack cheese). Gluten may be present in some crackers or chips; use certified gluten-free options if needed.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210. Total Fat: 12 g. Carbohydrates: 13 g. Protein: 10 g (per serving)
Save 
This appetizer is perfect for quick preparation and impressing guests with vibrant, fresh flavors.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of cheese is used?
Spicy Pepper Jack cheese cut into small cubes provides the main flavor and texture.
- → How is the salsa prepared?
The salsa combines drained black beans, diced tomato, red onion, jalapeño, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro, tossed with lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese cubes can be chilled while preparing the salsa, and the dish is best served fresh for optimal flavor.
- → Are there any dietary considerations?
This dish is vegetarian and gluten-free when served with certified gluten-free chips or crackers.
- → What can I substitute for Pepper Jack cheese?
Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese can be used as a milder alternative.
