Tex-Mex Black Bean and Corn Salad with Cilantro-Lime Dressing

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

A vibrant, fresh salad packed with black beans, sweet corn, and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing perfect for summer meals or as a side dish. This mexican-inspired salads (vegetarian, gluten free) ready in about 15 minutes blends can black beans, drained and rinsed, fresh corn kernels, medium red bell pepper, diced 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 180 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 Serves 4 Mexican cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 15 oz drained and rinsed black beans, 1 cup fresh corn kernels, 1 medium diced red bell pepper, 3 thinly sliced green onions, and 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 small seeded and finely chopped jalapeño to the dressing and whisk briefly.
  4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Step 5: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and intensify.

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Frequently asked questions

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

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Tex-Mex Black Bean and Corn 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 Tex-Mex Black Bean and Corn 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 Tex-Mex Black Bean and Corn 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 Tex-Mex Black Bean and Corn 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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