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Fresh Corn and Black Bean Salad

fresh corn and black bean salad - featured image

A quick, easy, and healthy summer salad combining sweet corn, creamy black beans, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or light lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked and kernels cut off (or 3 cups frozen corn, thawed)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped (optional: soak in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: diced avocado, jalapeño, feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Cut kernels off 4 fresh ears of corn or thaw 3 cups frozen corn (5-7 minutes).
  2. Rinse and drain 1 can (15 oz) black beans thoroughly.
  3. Dice 1 medium red bell pepper and finely chop 1 small red onion. Soak onion in cold water for 10 minutes if desired, then drain. Halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes if using (about 8 minutes).
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together juice of 2 limes, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 minced garlic clove, and salt and pepper to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn kernels, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
  6. Pour dressing over salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  8. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Add avocado just before serving to avoid browning. Soak red onion in cold water to mellow sharpness. Fresh corn preferred for best texture; frozen corn is a good substitute. Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium. Chill salad at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Avoid over-mixing after dressing to keep ingredients intact.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn salad, black bean salad, summer salad, healthy salad, easy salad, vegetarian, gluten-free, potluck recipe