Grilled Corn And Black Bean Salad

Bright, smoky, and packed with flavor, this Grilled Corn and Black Bean Salad is a perfect summer side or light meal. Charred corn kernels add a subtle sweetness and crisp texture, while black beans bring heartiness and protein.

Tossed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lime dressing, this colorful dish will steal the show at your next cookout or dinner gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Smoky & Sweet: Grilling the corn imparts a delicious char and sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory beans.
2. Easy to Customize: Add diced jalapeños for extra heat or toss in other veggies like tomatoes or bell peppers.
3. Nutrient-rich: High in fiber and plant-based protein, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
4. Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great make-ahead option.
5. Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegan: Suitable for various dietary needs and easy to adapt.

What to Serve with Grilled Corn and Black Bean Salad

1. Fresh Guacamole or Salsa: Double up on dips for extra flavor and fun.
2. Tortilla Chips or Pita Bread: Scoop up every last bite with your favorite crunchy side.
3. Tacos or Fajitas: Use this salad as a filling or a topping for your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
4. Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For non-vegans, pair it with a lean protein to round out the meal.

Ingredient Breakdown

1. Optional Extras: Jalapeños for heat, avocado for creaminess, or diced tomatoes for a burst of acidity.
2. Fresh Corn on the Cob: Grilling caramelizes the natural sugars, giving a sweet, smoky flavor.
3. Black Beans: Protein-rich and hearty, they balance out the sweetness of the corn.
4. Red Onion: Adds crispness and a pop of color, plus a sharp contrast to the sweet corn.
5. Bell Pepper (Optional): For extra crunch and variety—use any color you like.
6. Cilantro: Brighten the dish with a fresh, herbal note.
7. Lime Juice & Olive Oil Dressing: Adds tanginess and ties all the flavors together.

Yield: 4 serves

Grilled Corn And Black Bean Salad

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A smoky-sweet salad featuring grilled corn, hearty black beans, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues or a light, flavorful meal.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 ears fresh corn, husked
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional, for heat)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

1. Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place husked corn cobs directly on the grill grates. Grill for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred and cooked through. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
2. Cut the Corn Kernels: Once the corn is cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to slice the kernels off the cob. Place the kernels in a large bowl.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad: Add the black beans, red onion, bell pepper (if using), cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) to the bowl with grilled corn. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, and gently toss to combine all ingredients.
5. Serve & Enjoy: Taste and add more lime juice, salt, or pepper if needed. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Notes

1. Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Make-Ahead: Grill the corn and prep the veggies in advance; assemble and dress just before serving for maximum freshness.
3. Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free—no substitutions necessary.
4. Vegan Option: Already vegan as is; just make sure any optional add-ons fit your dietary needs.
5. Extra Protein: Feel free to add more beans, grilled tofu, or chickpeas to boost the protein content.

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Wrapping it up

Enjoy the best of summer flavors with this Grilled Corn and Black Bean Salad—a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy.

It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that you can whip up for any occasion, from backyard barbecues to quick weeknight meals.

Give it a try, and enjoy a wholesome, colorful dish that celebrates the season’s bounty!