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Fresh Grilled Corn and Black Bean Salsa

fresh grilled corn and black bean salsa - featured image

A quick and easy fresh grilled corn and black bean salsa recipe bursting with smoky sweetness, zesty lime, and fresh herbs. Perfect for summer parties, snacks, or as a topping for grilled meats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn, husks removed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
  • ½ medium red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt and a few cracks of black pepper)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400°F).
  2. Husk the corn and remove all silks. Lightly brush each ear with olive oil.
  3. Grill the corn directly on the grates for about 10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until kernels are tender and charred.
  4. Remove corn from grill and let cool for a few minutes. Cut kernels off the cob into a large bowl.
  5. Add rinsed black beans, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro to the bowl.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
  7. Pour the dressing over the corn and bean mixture and gently toss until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Bring to room temperature before serving if chilled.

Notes

If fresh corn is not available, use thawed frozen kernels. To mellow onion sharpness, soak chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes. For a smoky heat twist, add chipotle peppers or cayenne. If no grill is available, roast corn under broiler or sauté with smoked paprika. Let salsa rest 20-30 minutes for best flavor. Store leftovers in airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salsa, black bean salsa, fresh salsa, summer dip, easy salsa recipe, gluten-free salsa, vegetarian salsa