Black Bean, Corn & Red Onion Salsa
A vibrant, high-fiber salsa featuring black beans, sweet corn, and crisp red onion, brightened with fresh lime and cilantro. It's a versatile dish perfect as a dip, topping, or side for any meal.
For 6 servings
Prepare the vegetables: Rinse and thoroughly drain the canned black beans. If using frozen corn, ensure it is thawed. Finely dice the red onion, bell pepper, and chop the fresh cilantro.
Combine base ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the rinsed black beans, thawed corn, and finely diced red onion.
Add fresh elements: Stir in the finely diced bell pepper and the chopped fresh cilantro.
Prepare the dressing: In a small separate bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, ground cumin, and sea salt until well combined.
Dress the salsa: Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the black bean and corn mixture in the large bowl.
Mix thoroughly: Gently fold all ingredients together using a spatula or spoon until everything is well combined and coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the beans.
Meld flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 10-15 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for best results) to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or cumin to your preference.
Serve: Serve chilled as a dip with tortilla chips, a vibrant topping for tacos, burritos, grilled chicken or fish, or as a refreshing side salad.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best and brightest flavor, always use fresh lime juice instead of bottled.
- 2If you find red onion flavor too strong, soak the diced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before adding it to the salsa. This mellows its pungency.
- 3Allowing the salsa to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving is crucial; this gives the flavors time to fully meld and develop.
- 4Don't overmix the salsa; gently fold the ingredients to maintain the integrity of the beans and corn, ensuring a pleasant texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper (seeds removed for less heat) for a delightful spicy twist.
Creamy AdditionCreamy Addition
Fold in 1/2 cup of diced ripe avocado just before serving for a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats.
Fruity TwistFruity Twist
Incorporate 1/2 cup of diced fresh mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy tropical flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Black beans and corn are excellent sources of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health, aiding in blood sugar control, and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Packed with Vitamins
Bell peppers and lime provide a significant boost of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Red onions and cilantro contain various antioxidants and phytonutrients that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually deepen and improve over time, making it a great make-ahead option.
