Print

Southwest Corn Salad Recipe

4.5 from 58 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Southwest Corn Salad featuring sweet corn, black beans, colorful bell peppers, red onion, and fresh cilantro, perfectly tossed in a zesty lime vinaigrette. This simple no-cook salad is ideal as a side dish or a light lunch, offering a delightful blend of textures and bold southwestern flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Legumes

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow or green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing

  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients: If using fresh corn, cook and cool it before starting. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium. Dice the bell peppers, finely chop the red onion, and chop the cilantro.
  2. Mix dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
  3. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the corn, black beans, diced bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad.
  4. Toss the salad: Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated with the lime vinaigrette, ensuring a balanced flavor throughout.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled for best taste.

Notes

  • You can substitute frozen corn if fresh is unavailable; just thaw and drain before using.
  • Adjust the amount of lime juice and chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Optionally, add diced avocado or jalapeño for extra creaminess or heat.
  • Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or as a topping for tacos and burritos.

Keywords: Southwest Corn Salad, black bean salad, no-cook salad, lime vinaigrette, vegetarian, side dish, summer salad, easy salad recipe