Corn and Black Bean Salad (Printable View)

A vibrant mix of sweet corn, black beans, crisp vegetables, and zesty lime dressing.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 3–4 ears, or one 15 oz can, drained)
02 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1 avocado, diced
07 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Dressing

08 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1–2 limes)
10 - 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

# How-To Steps:

01 - If using fresh corn, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add corn kernels and cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Drain and let cool. If using canned or frozen corn, skip this step (thaw frozen corn if needed).
02 - In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey/agave (if using), cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
04 - Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like you spent forever planning it
  • The zesty lime dressing makes everything taste impossibly fresh and vibrant
  • You can prep everything ahead and toss right before serving
02 -
  • Dress the salad right before serving or the avocado will brown and the vegetables will release too much water
  • Grill the corn in advance for a smoky dimension that makes this feel completely different
03 -
  • Pat your canned beans dry with paper towels to prevent a watery bottom of the bowl
  • Squeeze extra lime over right before serving to wake up the flavors again

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