Taco-Style Black Bean and Corn Salad with Cilantro-Lime Dressing

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-06 · Updated 2026-07-06

A vibrant, zesty black bean and corn salad tossed in a fresh cilantro-lime dressing, perfect as a side or filling for tacos and wraps. This Mexican-inspired salad recipe (vegan, gluten free), ready in about 15 minutes, pairs black beans, corn kernels, 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

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

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed black beans, 1 1/2 cups corn kernels, 1 diced medium red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, and 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Step 4: If using, fold in 1 small seeded and finely chopped jalapeño for added heat.
5. Step 5: Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.