Description
The Mexican-Inspired Black Bean Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that features black beans, corn, and colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, avocado, and cilantro. The ingredients are complemented by a tangy and aromatic dressing made with lime juice, olive oil, and ground cumin. This salad offers a balance of textures and tastes—from the creamy avocado to the crunchy bell peppers and the rich beans, making it both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 avocado, diced
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
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1 lime, juiced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beans and Corn:
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Start by draining and rinsing the black beans under cold water to remove any excess sodium or preservatives. This will help improve the flavor of the salad.
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If you’re using frozen corn, cook it according to the package instructions, then allow it to cool. If you’re using canned corn, simply drain it and set it aside.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and cilantro. Toss them together gently, ensuring everything is well distributed.
3. Make the Dressing:
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In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The cumin will add a slight earthiness and depth of flavor to the dressing, perfectly complementing the freshness of the vegetables.
4. Combine and Serve:
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Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper, if necessary.
5. Chill and Enjoy:
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For the best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify. You can serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Notes
This salad is best served fresh but can also be made ahead and chilled for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. Feel free to customize it by adding diced bell peppers, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or a sprinkle of crumbled feta or cotija cheese for extra flavor!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Mexican-Inspired Black Bean Salad Recipe