Vibrant Black Bean and Corn Fiesta Salad
This Vibrant Black Bean and Corn Fiesta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and colors that brings freshness to your table. Packed with protein-rich black beans and sweet corn, this salad is enhanced with the crunch of bell peppers and the zing of lime. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues or a light lunch on its own, this healthy salad is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Enjoy the burst of taste that will energize your meals and impress your guests!
N/A
Servings
53
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
black beans
14 ounces (rinsed and drained)
frozen corn kernels
2 cups (no preparation needed)
red bell pepper
1 small (seeded and chopped)
green bell pepper
1 small (seeded and chopped)
red onion
1/2 (chopped)
ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons (no preparation needed)
lime
1 medium (juiced)
salt and pepper
to taste (no preparation needed)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed black beans, frozen corn kernels (you can let them thaw slightly beforehand), red and green bell peppers, and chopped red onion.
2
Sprinkle the ground cumin over the mixture and add the lime juice.
3
Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
4
Gently toss all the ingredients together until well mixed.
5
Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld and for the corn to fully defrost.
6
Give the salad another gentle toss before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
0.5g
Fat
10g
Carbs
2.3g
Protein
3g
Fiber
0.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vibrant Black Bean and Corn Fiesta Salad?
It is a colorful, nutrient-dense salad featuring black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a light lime-cumin dressing.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian and also vegan-friendly.
Is the salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 53 calories.
What are the primary protein sources in this salad?
The main source of protein in this salad is the black beans.
Can I use canned corn instead of frozen corn?
Yes, you can substitute 2 cups of canned corn, just ensure it is drained well before mixing.
Do I need to cook the frozen corn?
No cooking is required; the corn will thaw naturally as the salad sits for 15 minutes.
What kind of dressing is used?
The dressing is a simple, fresh blend of lime juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
How much fat is in this salad?
This salad is very low in fat, containing only 0.5g per serving.
What is the fiber content?
This salad is a good source of fiber, providing 3g per serving.
How many ingredients are required?
The recipe requires 8 ingredients: black beans, corn, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, cumin, lime, and salt/pepper.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation is quick, requiring only about 10 minutes of active time plus 15 minutes of resting.
What type of onion is best for this recipe?
Red onion is recommended for its mild flavor and vibrant color.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Avocado, tomatoes, or jalapeños would make excellent additions.
Is it necessary to rinse the black beans?
Yes, rinsing and draining the black beans helps remove excess sodium and starch.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I serve this salad immediately?
While you can serve it immediately, letting it sit for 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the corn to fully defrost.
Is this salad spicy?
The salad is not inherently spicy, as cumin provides an earthy flavor rather than heat.
What is the serving size for the nutritional information?
The nutritional data provided is based on one serving, though the total number of servings can vary.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
How much cumin should I add?
The recipe calls for 1.5 teaspoons of ground cumin.
Does this salad contain cholesterol?
No, this plant-based salad is cholesterol-free.
Is this a good dish for meal prep?
Yes, it is an excellent meal prep option as it stays fresh and flavorful in the fridge.
What can I serve with this salad?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, tacos, or can be eaten alone as a light lunch.
Are the bell peppers cooked or raw?
The bell peppers are used raw to provide a fresh, crunchy texture.
Can I substitute the black beans?
Yes, pinto beans or chickpeas would work as substitutes, though it will change the flavor profile.
Is there any added sugar?
There is no added sugar; the 0.5g of sugar comes naturally from the vegetables.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 10g of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the bright colors and sweet corn make it a hit with many children.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Yes, adding chopped fresh cilantro or parsley would enhance the freshness of the salad.