Cooking, Entertainment

Black Bean Salad

This bright, refreshing salad is the perfect side dish for cookouts, tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or even as a light lunch. It’s full of fresh flavors with just a little kick from the spices!

Makes: 5 – 7 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups homemade black beans or 1 15 oz can, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn, or thawed frozen corn)
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 avocado, peeled and diced
  • 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 fresh lime, more if desired
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (add diced jalapeño for extra heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Gently fold in the diced avocado last to help keep it from being mashed.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional lime juice, salt, or chili powder if desired.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, steak, or fish.
  • Spoon over tacos or burrito bowls.
  • Enjoy with tortilla chips as a fresh salsa.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the freshest texture, prepare the salad without the avocado and add it just before serving.

Warmly,
Lora