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Flavorful Charred Corn and Black Bean Summer Salsa

charred corn and black bean summer salsa - featured image

A smoky, zesty summer salsa featuring charred corn and black beans, perfect for BBQs and potlucks. Easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors and texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
  • ½ small red onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • Juice of 2 medium limes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush corn lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  2. Place corn on grill and cook, turning occasionally, until kernels are golden brown and blistered, about 10-12 minutes. If using frozen corn, sauté in a hot skillet with oil until slightly browned.
  3. Let corn cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, cut kernels off the cob.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine black beans, diced red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro.
  5. Add charred corn kernels to the bowl. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and squeeze fresh lime juice over everything.
  6. Sprinkle in ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to combine.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, lime juice, or cumin as desired.
  8. Let salsa rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

If fresh corn is unavailable, frozen corn can be used but will not char as well. For a low-sodium version, rinse black beans thoroughly or use no-salt-added beans. Salsa can be prepared up to 6 hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving. Adding avocado just before serving adds creaminess. For more heat, increase jalapeño or add serrano peppers. Avoid reheating salsa; serve at room temperature or lightly chilled.

Nutrition

Keywords: charred corn salsa, black bean salsa, summer salsa, BBQ side dish, easy salsa recipe, smoky salsa, vegan salsa, gluten-free salsa