Black Bean and Corn Salsa
A vibrant, chunky salsa packed with black beans, sweet corn, and crisp veggies. Tossed in a zesty lime dressing, it's the perfect dip for chips or a fresh topping for tacos and salads.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Salsa Base (5 minutes)
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, drained corn, finely diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, and jalapeño.
- c.Add the chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl.
- d.Gently toss the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Whisk the Dressing (3 minutes)
- b.In a separate small bowl or liquid measuring cup, add the freshly squeezed lime juice and extra virgin olive oil.
- c.Add the ground cumin, chili powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Whisk vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine and Marinate (2 minutes + chill time)
- b.Pour the prepared dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
- c.Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the zesty dressing.
- d.For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve (1 minute)
- b.Before serving, give the salsa one final stir to redistribute the dressing.
- c.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
- d.Serve chilled with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or as a vibrant side salad.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, let the salsa marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors will meld and become even more delicious overnight.
- 2Rinsing canned beans and corn thoroughly removes excess sodium and any metallic taste, resulting in a fresher, cleaner flavor.
- 3Control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeño. For a milder salsa, remove all seeds and white membranes. For more heat, leave some in.
- 4This salsa is perfect for meal prep. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- 5If fresh corn is in season, grill or boil one or two cobs and cut the kernels off for a smoky, sweet flavor boost.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Creaminess
Gently fold in one diced avocado just before serving for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
Sweet & SpicySweet & Spicy
Add 1 cup of diced fresh mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist that complements the spiciness.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
Substitute regular chili powder with 1/4 teaspoon of chipotle chili powder for a deep, smoky heat.
Bean SwapBean Swap
Feel free to use pinto beans or chickpeas instead of black beans for a different texture and flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Black beans and corn are excellent sources of fiber, which aids digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness to help with weight management, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Plant-Based Protein Power
The combination of black beans and corn provides a good source of plant-based protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle health, and overall body function.
Packed with Antioxidants
Colorful ingredients like red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
A 1-cup serving of this salsa contains approximately 160-180 calories, making it a light and healthy snack or side dish. The exact count depends on the amount of olive oil used.