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Smoky Grilled Corn and Black Bean Salad: Easy 20-Minute Recipe

smoky grilled corn and black bean salad - featured image

This smoky grilled corn and black bean salad is a quick, easy, and healthy dish that comes together in about 20 minutes. Charred corn, creamy black beans, and a tangy lime dressing make it perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced small
  • ½ medium red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 large avocado, diced
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If using a grill, lightly oil the grates.
  2. Grill the corn for 8-10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until charred in spots and slightly softened.
  3. Transfer the grilled corn to a cutting board and let cool for 5 minutes.
  4. Stand each ear upright and cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife. You should have about 2 cups of kernels.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and most of the cilantro. Pour the dressing over and toss gently.
  7. Fold in the diced avocado carefully.
  8. Let the salad rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  9. Garnish with remaining cilantro and serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

For best flavor, let the salad rest for 10 minutes before serving. If making ahead, add avocado just before serving. The dressing can be made up to a week in advance.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, black bean salad, summer salad, vegan, gluten-free, easy recipe, 20-minute meal