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Easy • Sides

Zesty Bean and Corn Salad

A refreshing and vibrant salad packed with black beans, sweet corn, crisp veggies, and a zesty lime vinaigrette.

Prep
15 min
Cook
0 min
Servings
6
Level
Easy
Zesty Bean and Corn Salad

Say hello to your new favorite side dish or light lunch! This Zesty Bean and Corn Salad is bursting with fresh flavors and textures. It’s colorful, satisfying, and comes together in minutes, making it perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or a speedy addition to your weeknight dinner. The bright lime vinaigrette ties all the delicious ingredients together beautifully!

Ingredients

Yield: 6 servings

Salad

  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn, drained (or 1.5 cups frozen, thawed)
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1-2 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)

Lime Vinaigrette

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, drained corn, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if using).

  2. Step 2

    Prepare the Lime Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  3. Step 3

    Pour the vinaigrette over the bean and corn mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

  4. Step 4

    Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. You might want a little more salt, lime, or even a pinch of sugar.

  5. Step 5

    For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld. Can be made 1-2 days ahead.

  6. Step 6

    Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish, with tortilla chips, or as a topping for tacos or grilled chicken.

Tips

  • Add a diced avocado just before serving for extra creaminess.
  • Feel free to add other diced vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes.
  • This salad is fantastic for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge.

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