Black Bean and Corn Salad
This Black Bean and Corn Salad combines black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and avocado tossed in a lime and olive oil dressing with cilantro and mild spices. The salad features a balance of fresh, creamy, and tangy flavors with a bit of heat from optional jalapeno. It’s a colorful, fresh side dish that works well with grilled meats or as a light meal component.
Ingredients
- 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans rinsed and drained well
- 1 cup corn thawed according to package instructions, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup tomato Roma, cocktail, grape, etc, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper orange, seeded and chopped
- 1/3 cup onion rinsed and drained, red, diced
- 1 medium avocado diced (fairly firm but ripe
- 1 small jalapeno pepper seeded and minced (optional
Dressing
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 1/2 Tbsp lime juice fresh
- 1/3 cup cilantro chopped, fresh
- 1 clove garlic minced (1 tsp
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp each chili powder
- 1/4 tsp each ground cumin
- black pepper freshly ground
- salt freshly ground
Instructions
- Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small mixing bowl, season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill until ready to use.
- Add black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, avocado and jalapeno to a large bowl.
- Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat with dressing. Serve right away.
Notes
- Roast or grill bell peppers and corn before mixing for extra smoky flavor.
- Serve this salad with grilled shrimp, chicken, or fish for a complete meal.
- Use fresh lime juice for best brightness in the dressing.
- Best served soon after tossing to keep avocado from browning and vegetables crisp.
- Pairs well over quinoa or alongside flank steak or salmon for variety.