I Need a Recipe

Easy • Vegetarian

Speedy Black Bean and Corn Salad Bowls

A vibrant, fresh, and protein-packed salad that comes together in minutes, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Prep
15 min
Cook
0 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Speedy Black Bean and Corn Salad Bowls

Say hello to your new favorite speedy meal! These Black Bean and Corn Salad Bowls are bursting with fresh flavors, textures, and nutrients, making them an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or a light, satisfying dinner. No cooking required (unless you toast the tortillas!), just simple assembly for maximum deliciousness.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

For the Salad

  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained (or 1.5 cups frozen corn, thawed)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1-2 ripe avocados, diced

For the Dressing

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice (from 1-2 limes)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

For Serving (Optional)

  • Tortilla chips or warm tortillas
  • Lettuce cups
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Gently mix.

  2. Step 2

    In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) until well combined.

  3. Step 3

    Pour the dressing over the black bean and corn mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  4. Step 4

    Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado. This prevents the avocado from browning.

  5. Step 5

    Serve immediately as is, in lettuce cups, or with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for scooping.

Tips

  • For best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  • If making ahead, add the avocado just before serving to keep it from browning.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.

More recipes you'll love

Creamy Tomato Chickpea Curry
Weeknight•35 min
Creamy Tomato Chickpea Curry

A rich and fragrant vegetarian curry packed with chickpeas and tomatoes in a luscious, spiced coconut sauce.

Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
Easy•20 min
Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas

Flavorful black beans and sweet corn are layered with melty cheese in crispy tortillas for a quick, satisfying meal.