Fresh Black Bean and Corn Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Black Bean and Corn Salad is a vibrant, refreshing, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the combination of sweet corn, hearty black beans, and crunchy vegetables, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s great as a side dish for barbecues, a topping for tacos, or a light meal on its own. The zesty lime dressing adds the perfect tang to tie it all together, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked or canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra spice)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using) until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add diced avocado for extra creaminess and richness.
• For a spicier kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Replace the cilantro with fresh parsley or green onions if you prefer a different herb.
• Add crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a tangy, creamy touch.
• For more texture, incorporate diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

Storage/Reheating

Store the Fresh Black Bean and Corn Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so make sure to refrigerate leftovers. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn?
Yes, canned corn works fine for this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse it before using.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. The flavors improve as they sit, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

Is this salad vegan?
Yes, this Fresh Black Bean and Corn Salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some grilled steak for a heartier dish.

Conclusion

Fresh Black Bean and Corn Salad is a bright and healthy dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main dish, it’s sure to impress with its combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This versatile, easy-to-make salad is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just as a quick, nutritious meal.

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