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Best Grilled Corn Black Bean Salad: Easy 15-Minute Recipe

grilled corn black bean salad - featured image

This grilled corn and black bean salad is quick, easy, and perfect for summer gatherings. Charred sweet corn, creamy black beans, and a zesty lime dressing come together in just 15 minutes of active work.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. Remove husks and silk from corn; rinse and pat dry.
  3. Grill corn directly on grates for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until charred and kernels start to pop.
  4. Transfer grilled corn to a cutting board and let cool for at least 10 minutes.
  5. While corn cools, make dressing: whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar until emulsified.
  6. Stand each ear of corn upright and cut kernels off the cob using a sharp chef’s knife.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn kernels, black beans, diced bell pepper, diced red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently.
  8. Pour dressing over salad and toss until everything is well coated.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lime, or cumin as needed.
  10. Let salad rest at room temperature for 15-30 minutes for flavors to meld (optional but recommended).
  11. Just before serving, crumble cotija cheese on top if using. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

Letting the grilled corn cool before cutting kernels off prevents clumping and excess moisture. For a milder onion flavor, soak diced red onion in ice water for 5-10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. The salad can be made ahead: prep components separately up to 24 hours in advance and toss together just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, black bean salad, summer salad, easy side dish, vegan, gluten-free, cookout recipe