You Seminar-Inspired Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salad

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

A vibrant, refreshing salad combining sweet corn, black beans, and fresh herbs with a zesty lime dressing, channeling inspiration from the soulful journey of self-discovery. This mexican-inspired salads (vegetarian) ready in about 20 minutes pairs (about 3 ears) fresh corn kernels, canned, drained and rinsed black beans, small, diced 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 5 min Serves 6 Mexican cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: If using fresh corn, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 3 ears corn. Cook for 3 minutes, then drain and let cool. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off kernels to yield 2 cups.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups corn kernels, 1 1/2 cups drained black beans, 1 small diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, and 1/3 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, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the corn and bean mixture, tossing gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Step 5: If desired, stir in 1 small finely chopped, seeded jalapeño for a mild kick.
  6. Step 6: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.

Frequently asked questions

How long does You Seminar-Inspired Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salad take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (15 min prep + 5 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover You Seminar-Inspired Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salad?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep small, diced red bell pepper from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in You Seminar-Inspired Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salad?

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 You Seminar-Inspired Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salad for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). 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 You Seminar-Inspired Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salad vegetarian?

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

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