Simple Black Bean & Corn Salsa
A vibrant and refreshing salsa featuring protein-rich black beans, sweet corn, crisp red onion, and fresh cilantro, brightened with zesty lime juice. Perfect as a dip, side, or topping, it's quick to prepare and packed with flavor and nutrition.
For 4 servings
Prepare Beans and Corn: Thoroughly rinse and drain the canned black beans. If using frozen corn, ensure it is completely thawed. If using canned corn, drain it well.
Dice and Mince Vegetables: Finely dice the red onion. Mince the garlic clove. If using jalapeño, finely mince it, removing seeds and membranes for a milder heat, or leave some for more spice. Chop the fresh cilantro.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the rinsed black beans, thawed/drained corn, diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if using).
Season the Salsa: Squeeze the juice of one large lime over the ingredients. Add the ground cumin, sea salt, and black pepper.
Mix Thoroughly: Gently stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined and evenly distributed.
Allow Flavors to Meld: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salsa for at least 15-30 minutes. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and deepen, significantly enhancing the taste.
Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the salsa and adjust the salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed to suit your preference.
Serve Chilled: Serve the salsa chilled with tortilla chips, as a vibrant topping for tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or fish, or as a refreshing side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Freshness is Key: Always use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the brightest, most authentic flavor. Bottled lime juice will not yield the same vibrant taste.
- 2Don't Skip the Rest: Allowing the salsa to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes (or even longer) significantly improves its flavor as the ingredients meld and infuse.
- 3Adjust Heat to Taste: For more heat, leave some seeds and membranes in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder salsa, omit the jalapeño entirely.
- 4Rinse Beans Thoroughly: Rinsing canned black beans removes excess sodium and starch, which improves both the flavor and texture of the salsa.
Adapt it for your goals.
Tropical Twist
Add 1/2 cup of finely diced fresh mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy tropical variation that pairs wonderfully with grilled seafood.
Avocado CreaminessAvocado Creaminess
Stir in 1 diced ripe avocado just before serving for a creamy texture and an extra boost of healthy fats and nutrients.
Smoky Chipotle KickSmoky Chipotle Kick
Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle powder or 1 tablespoon of finely minced chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy depth of flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Black beans and corn are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to overall gut health.
Rich in Antioxidants
Ingredients like black beans, corn, red onion, and cilantro are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals and support immune function.
Plant-Based Protein
Black beans provide a significant amount of plant-based protein, making this salsa a satisfying and nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans, contributing to muscle health and sustained energy.
Frequently asked questions
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Black Bean & Corn Salsa will stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. If adding avocado, consume within 1-2 days.
