Canalside-Inspired Roasted Corn and Black Bean Salad

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-10 · Updated 2026-07-10

A vibrant salad combining sweet roasted corn and black beans, inspired by Buffalo’s lively Canalside waterfront atmosphere. This Mexican-inspired salad recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 25 minutes, pairs fresh corn kernels, black beans, red bell pepper into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh corn kernels
• 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed black beans
• 1 medium, diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 3 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 small, seeded and finely chopped (optional) jalapeño

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F. Spread 2 cups fresh corn kernels on a rimmed baking sheet and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1/2 tsp salt. Roast for 15 minutes, stirring halfway, until the corn is golden and lightly charred.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the roasted corn, 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed black beans, 1 medium diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 small finely chopped jalapeño if using.
4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice as desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.