Alright, party people, get ready to salsa your way to flavor town! This Black Bean and Corn Salad is the ultimate sidekick for your summer fiestas, BBQs, or just a casual Tuesday night. We’re talking juicy corn, hearty black beans, tangy lime, and a kick of jalapeño—all tossed together for a flavor explosion. It’s quick, easy, and totally addictive. Trust me, you’ll be making this on repeat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes! Perfect for those last-minute gatherings.
- Bursting with Flavor: Every bite is a fiesta of tangy, spicy, and fresh flavors.
- Healthy & Hearty: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a salad that’s good for you.
- Totally Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, topping, or even a dip!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Olive oil: The base of the dressing, use good quality for the best flavor.
- Red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy, acidic note.
- Lime juice: Adds a bright, citrusy zing.
- Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- Black beans: Hearty and satisfying, the star of the show. Rinse and drain them well!
- Whole kernel corn: Sweet and juicy, adds a burst of freshness.
- Tomatoes: Seeded and diced, adds a juicy, fresh element.
- Red onion: Adds a sharp, sweet crunch.
- Parsley: Fresh and vibrant, adds a pop of freshness.
- Jalapeño pepper: Finely chopped, adds a kick of heat. Adjust to your spice preference!
Variations
- Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
- Bell Pepper Boost: Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Cilantro Craze: Substitute cilantro for parsley for a different herb flavor.
- Feta Fun: Crumble feta cheese over the salad for a salty, tangy twist.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Black Bean and Corn Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, and cumin.
Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
Stir in the black beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and parsley.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Rinse and Drain Well: Make sure to rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
- Seed the Tomatoes: Seeding the tomatoes prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
- Adjust the Spice: Add more or less jalapeño depending on your spice preference.
- Let it Marinate: Letting the salad sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld.
How to Serve
This salad is perfect:
- As a side dish: With grilled meats, chicken, or fish.
- As a topping: For tacos, nachos, or grain bowls.
- As a dip: With tortilla chips for a delicious appetizer.
- In a burrito or wrap: Adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables will change.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating needed!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for red wine vinegar.
2. Can I use frozen corn?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the corn before adding it to the salad.
3. Can I make this salad without jalapeño?
Yes, you can omit the jalapeño for a milder version.
4. Can I add other beans?
Yes, you can add other beans like pinto beans or kidney beans for variety.
Conclusion
This Black Bean and Corn Salad is a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, healthy, and totally customizable. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a salad that will have everyone asking for the recipe. You’re going to love it!
PrintBlack Bean and Corn Salad: Fiesta in a Bowl!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
- Category: Salads, Side Dishes, Appetizers
- Method: Mixing, No-cook
- Cuisine: Southwestern, Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Black Bean and Corn Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make side dish or appetizer. It combines the sweetness of corn and tomatoes with the heartiness of black beans, all tossed in a zesty lime and cumin dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a colorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 19 ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained well
- 12 ounce can whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cups tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
Instructions
- Make Dressing: In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, and cumin.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed and drained black beans, drained corn, seeded and diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, finely chopped jalapeño, and chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Seed the tomatoes to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your spice preference.
- For a sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of honey or agave.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- For a protein boost, add cooked quinoa or grilled chicken.
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg