Corn and Black Bean Salad Recipe
Are you looking for a meal that feels like sunshine in a bowl? This Corn and Black Beans Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It is bright, crunchy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cans 15 oz each of black beans
- 2 cups of corn fresh, canned, or frozen
- 1 large red bell pepper diced
- 1 small red onion finely chopped
- 1 cup of fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 large ripe avocado diced
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Start by washing all your fresh produce. Dice the red bell pepper into small pieces. Chop the red onion very finely. You want a little bit of onion in every bite. Cut the cilantro leaves away from the stems. Chop them roughly to release the scent.
Rinse the Black Beans
- Open your cans of black beans. Pour them into a colander in the sink. Rinse them with cold water until the water runs clear. This removes the salty liquid and extra starch. Let them drain well for a few minutes.
Get the Corn Ready
- If using canned corn, drain it well. If using frozen corn, let it thaw first. For the best taste, use fresh corn off the cob. You can even grill the corn for a smoky flavor. Put the corn into your large mixing bowl.
Make the Zesty Dressing
- In a small jar, mix the olive oil and lime juice. Add the honey, cumin, and chili powder. Put the lid on and shake it hard. You can also use a whisk in a bowl. Taste it to see if it needs more salt.
Combine the Main Ingredients
- Add the black beans, corn, and peppers to the large bowl. Toss in the red onion and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top. Stir everything gently so the dressing coats every piece. This is where the magic happens!
Add the Avocado and Serve
- Wait to add the avocado until just before serving. This keeps it from turning brown or getting mushy. Fold the avocado chunks in gently. Give it one last light toss. Your salad is now ready to enjoy!
Notes
- Use Fresh Lime: Always use real lime juice. The bottled stuff does not taste as bright.
- Let it Rest: If you have time, let the salad sit for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together.
- Add Some Heat: Do you like spicy food? Add a chopped jalapeño to the mix. Remove the seeds for less heat.
- Cheese Please: You can add 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Cotija cheese also works great for a salty kick.
- Grain Power: Want a bigger meal? Stir in some cooked quinoa or brown rice. It makes the salad very filling.
- Fruit Twist: Some people love adding diced mango. The sweetness goes perfectly with the black beans.