Introduction
Looking for a quick and easy salad that’s full of flavor? This black bean and corn salad is just what you need. It’s colorful, fresh, and ready in minutes. You don’t need to cook anything. Just chop, mix, and serve.
This dish is perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or light lunches. It’s also great for meal prep during busy weeks. The mix of black beans, sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro brings a bold and zesty flavor.
It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients. You can even add avocado or jalapeño for extra texture or spice.
Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a main meal, this healthy black bean and corn salad always hits the spot. Let’s get started!
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Why You’ll Love This Black Bean and Corn Salad
Ready in just 15 minutes – perfect for busy days
You don’t need much time to enjoy this dish. Just mix a few fresh ingredients, and it’s ready to go. It’s one of the quickest black bean and corn salad recipes you can make.
Packed with plant-based protein and fiber
Black beans add protein. Corn and veggies bring fiber. This makes the salad filling, healthy, and great for anyone looking to eat clean.
Colorful, refreshing, and full of texture
This salad looks beautiful and tastes even better. The mix of tomatoes, corn, and red onion gives every bite a pop of flavor and crunch.
Naturally vegan and gluten-free
You don’t have to worry about special diets. This vegan black bean and corn salad works for almost everyone.
Great as a side, main dish, or meal prep
Use it as a side for grilled meat or tacos. Or enjoy it as a light lunch. It also keeps well in the fridge, so it’s perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Black beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
Use canned black beans to save time. Rinse and drain them well. You can also cook dry beans if you prefer.
This ingredient is rich in nutrients and offers numerous health benefits; therefore, it is highly recommended to incorporate it into your diet.
Sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Fresh sweet corn adds great texture. But frozen or canned corn also works. Just make sure to drain it if using canned.
If you’re curious about this ingredient’s nutritional facts, click here!
Red onion or green onions for a punch of flavor
Chop them small for a sharp bite. Red onion gives color and a bold taste. Green onions are milder if you want a softer flavor.
Cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness
Slice them in half or quarters. Cherry tomatoes bring color, juiciness, and balance to the salad.
Optional add-ins: avocado, bell pepper, or jalapeño
Want more flavor or crunch? Add diced avocado for creaminess. Use bell pepper for crunch, or jalapeño if you like it spicy.
How to Make the Best Black Bean and Corn Salad (Step-by-Step)
Rinse and drain black beans and corn
Start by rinsing your black beans under cold water. Drain the sweet corn well. This keeps the salad fresh and prevents it from being soggy.
Dice onions, tomatoes, and any optional ingredients
Chop the red onion and cherry tomatoes into small pieces. If you’re adding avocado, bell pepper, or jalapeño, dice them now too.
Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper
In a small bowl, mix fresh lime juice, a splash of olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This is your zesty dressing.
Toss everything together in a large salad bowl
Add all ingredients to a big bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad. Mix gently until everything is well coated.
Chill before serving for the best flavor
Let the salad sit in the fridge for 15–30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and makes the salad taste even better.
Recipe Variations and Add-Ins
Add diced avocado for creaminess
Chop fresh avocado and mix it in. It adds a rich, creamy texture to your black bean and corn salad.
Crumble in feta or cotija cheese
Add a handful of feta or cotija cheese. Both give a salty, tangy kick that pairs well with the fresh veggies.
Spice it up with chopped jalapeños or chili flakes
Like it spicy? Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes. This gives the salad a bold, fiery touch.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost
For a full meal, add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp. This makes your salad more filling without losing its fresh flavor.
Use as a filling for tacos, burritos, or lettuce wraps
Get creative! Spoon the salad into tacos, wrap it in lettuce leaves, or roll it into burritos for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Perfect side dish for summer BBQs and picnics
Bring this black bean and corn salad to your next picnic or BBQ. It’s fresh, colorful, and easy to make ahead.
Serve it as a topping for tacos or grilled meats
Spoon it over tacos, pair it with grilled chicken, or serve it next to steak. It adds brightness to any plate.
Use it for healthy lunch meal prep
Pack it in containers for a quick, healthy lunch. It stays fresh and flavorful throughout the week.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
Place leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it chilled in the fridge and enjoy it for up to three days.
Stir before serving if dressing settles
Before serving again, give it a quick stir. This helps the lime dressing coat everything evenly.
Fresh Black Bean and Corn Salad
Fresh Black Bean and Corn Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned black beans for this salad?
Yes! Canned black beans work great. Just rinse and drain them well before adding.
2. Should I cook the corn first?
No need if you’re using canned or frozen corn. If you’re using fresh corn, you can boil or grill it for extra flavor.
3. What can I add to make it a full meal?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even quinoa for more protein and texture.
4. What dressing goes best with black bean and corn salad?
A mix of lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper is fresh and perfect.
5. Can I add cheese to this salad?
Yes. Crumbled feta or cotija cheese adds a nice salty touch.
Conclusion
This black bean and corn salad is quick, easy, and full of fresh flavor. You can make it in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for summer meals, parties, or healthy lunch prep.
The mix of black beans, sweet corn, and veggies makes every bite tasty and satisfying. You can also change it up with fun add-ins like avocado or jalapeño.
Try it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a light meal. If you love it, leave a comment below. Don’t forget to share your own twist on this easy salad recipe!
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