Omaha-Inspired Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salad

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-08 · Updated 2026-06-08

A vibrant salad combining sweet corn, black beans, and fresh vegetables with a zesty lime dressing, ideal for summer gatherings. This American-inspired salad recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 21 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 150 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 (from about 4 ears) 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, freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

The pan we’d use for this → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 cups fresh corn kernels. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled 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 fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.