Description
This vibrant and refreshing Black Bean Corn Salad is a quick and easy no-cook recipe perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a healthy side dish. Combining protein-rich black beans, sweet corn, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lime-cumin dressing, it delivers a colorful bowl of fresh flavors and satisfying textures in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained (or 2 cups fresh or frozen corn)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (or parsley as an alternative)
Dressing Ingredients
- Juice of 2 limes (or 1/4 cup lemon juice for a twist)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Beans and Corn: Rinse the canned black beans and corn under cold water to reduce sodium and improve flavor. Drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- Chop Vegetables: Dice the red bell pepper, cucumber, and finely chop the red onion into bite-sized pieces for a colorful and appealing salad texture.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix the black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion using a rubber spatula for even distribution.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create a tangy and flavorful dressing.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, add chopped cilantro, and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning by adding more lime juice for acidity or salt for flavor as desired. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
- For a twist, substitute lime juice with lemon juice for the dressing.
- Fresh corn enhances the flavor but canned or frozen corn work well too.
- This salad can be chilled for 30 minutes for flavors to meld but is best served fresh.
- Use parsley instead of cilantro if preferred or if cilantro is not available.
- Consider adding diced avocado or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra richness, though this will alter the nutrition.
