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Southwest Corn Salad Recipe

4.9 from 134 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Southwest Corn Salad featuring sweet corn, hearty black beans, colorful peppers, zesty lime, and a blend of Southwest spices. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is quick to prepare and packed with bold, fresh flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
  • 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, drained black beans, diced bell peppers, chopped red onion, jalapeño (if using), and fresh cilantro. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until emulsified and well combined.
  3. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the corn and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Chill before serving: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
  5. Serve: Give the salad a final toss before serving. Enjoy it as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light, refreshing snack.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn when in season for the best flavor; canned or frozen corn also works well.
  • Adjust the jalapeño quantity to control the heat level or omit if you prefer a milder salad.
  • This salad can be made a day in advance to save time; just store it covered in the refrigerator.
  • For a vegan or vegetarian option, this recipe is naturally suitable as is.
  • Adding diced avocado can add creaminess but should be done just before serving to avoid browning.

Keywords: Southwest corn salad, black bean salad, no-cook salad, quick summer salad, vegan corn salad