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Fresh Corn and Black Bean Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing

fresh corn and black bean salad - featured image

A quick and easy fresh corn and black bean salad tossed in a zesty lime dressing with a hint of cumin and honey, perfect for summer gatherings and a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears), grilled or boiled
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
  • ½ small red onion, minced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 large limes (about ¼ cup / 60 ml), freshly squeezed
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the corn by husking and removing silks. Grill the ears on a hot grill or grill pan for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred and tender. Alternatively, boil the corn in salted water for 5-7 minutes until crisp-tender. Let cool, then slice off the kernels.
  2. Rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly under cold water and let drain well.
  3. Finely dice the red bell pepper and red onion. If using, seed and finely chop the jalapeño. Chop the fresh cilantro leaves.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey or agave, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is well coated.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
  8. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Grilling the corn adds a smoky flavor but boiling works well for sweetness and tenderness. Use freshly squeezed lime juice for best flavor. Wash hands after handling jalapeño or wear gloves to avoid irritation. Toss gently to avoid mashing beans. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors. Store in airtight container up to 3 days. Add avocado or cheese just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: fresh corn salad, black bean salad, lime dressing, summer salad, easy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad, healthy side dish