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Fresh Cowboy Caviar Recipe Easy Black Beans and Corn Salad for Summer

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A fresh, zesty black bean and corn salad perfect for summer gatherings, combining bright flavors and crunchy textures in a quick and easy dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) sweet corn or 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 stalks green onions, finely sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Veggies (10 minutes): Rinse and drain the black beans and corn thoroughly. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper, finely slice the green onions, chop the cilantro, and mince the jalapeño after removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
  2. Make the Dressing (2 minutes): In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Combine Ingredients (3 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, add black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until evenly coated, being careful not to mash the beans.
  4. Chill and Marinate (at least 15 minutes): Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
  5. Final Taste Adjustment: Before serving, give it one last gentle toss and taste. Adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.

Notes

Rinse and drain beans well to avoid mushiness. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Toss gently to keep beans and tomatoes whole. Chill salad for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld. Adjust heat by removing jalapeño seeds or adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder. Drain excess liquid before serving if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy caviar, black bean salad, corn salad, summer salad, easy salad, Tex-Mex salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad