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Southwest Corn Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 62 reviews

This vibrant Southwest Corn Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish featuring sweet corn, black beans, colorful peppers, and zesty lime, combined with aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, it’s easy to prepare by simply mixing and chilling all ingredients to enhance the flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Legumes

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)

Seasonings & Dressing

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: If using frozen corn, thaw completely. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve flavor. Dice the bell peppers into small, bite-sized pieces.
  2. Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, diced peppers, and chopped cilantro if using. Add ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to taste, then drizzle with fresh lime juice.
  3. Toss and chill: Gently toss all ingredients until everything is evenly coated with the spices and lime juice. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Serve: Give the salad a final stir before serving chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn in season for the best flavor, or high-quality frozen corn if fresh is unavailable.
  • Adjust the level of chili powder according to your heat preference.
  • This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Adding diced avocado or a sprinkle of feta cheese can provide extra creaminess and richness.
  • Great served alongside grilled meats or as a filling for tacos and wraps.

Keywords: Southwest corn salad, black bean salad, no-cook salad, summer salad, vegetarian salad, Mexican-inspired salad

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/southwest-corn-salad-recipe/