Patriotic Corn and Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant salad combining sweet corn, black beans, and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty cilantro lime dressing, perfect for summer gatherings. This mexican-inspired salads (vegetarian, gluten free) ready in about 21 minutes blends (about 3 ears) fresh corn kernels, drained and rinsed canned black beans, halved cherry tomatoes into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 200 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 6 min Serves 4 Mexican cuisine 200 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 cups fresh corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes until lightly charred and fragrant.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the charred corn, 1 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 small 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, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
  4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Step 5: Refrigerate the salad for 20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Step 6: Serve chilled or at room temperature as a colorful side dish.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Patriotic Corn and Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 21 minutes (15 min prep + 6 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Patriotic Corn and Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Patriotic Corn and Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Patriotic Corn and Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Patriotic Corn and Black Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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