Why you'll love it

It's no surprise why the combination of black beans, corn, and avocado is a popular one. It's mouthwatering, you guys. Pair it with a lime vinaigrette, and this is what southwestern dreams are made of. This salad recipe works as a lighter meatless main course or as a side dish with so many summer meals!

This black bean salad with corn is so simple to make. It's hearty, bright and zesty, and you can even make it ahead of time for a BBQ or potluck. Whenever I bring it along to a summer gathering, there's none left by the time I leave. I never have to think about it; this is the one I'm bringing to any summer party.

What you will need

For the salad

Rice - any variety of white rice is good. I like jasmine.

Avocado - choose one that's just soft when you squeeze it and if it's green under the nub for optimal ripeness

Black beans - grab a can of these inexpensive beans

Corn - I chose canned, but freshly grilled corn absolutely works

Onion - red onion is a classic for salads since it's less sharp than other varieties

Cilantro - for fresh contrast. If you have an aversion, use fresh parsley instead

For the dressing

Olive oil - use a good quality one as the flavor will shine through

Lime - we're using both fresh lime juice and zest for ultimate brightness here. I use my Microplane to zest the lime.

Honey - a bit of sweetness to counter the acidity. To make this recipe vegan, swap the honey for sugar.

Chili powder - for more rounded flavor. Most varieties are not spicy!

Garlic powder - to add a final savory touch

How to make black bean salad with corn

This is an overview, and full ingredients & instructions are in the recipe card below.

Cook the rice according to the directions on the package, and make sure to let it cool.

Add all of the dressing ingredients to a small bowl, and whisk together until combined.

Prep all of the salad ingredients and add to a salad bowl. Toss with the dressing. Season with salt & pepper, and chill if desired!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You sure can! The most important part is adding the avocado just prior to serving since it can brown quite soon after you cut it.

I also recommend storing the dressing separately (try these glass yogurt jars) and adding it when serving so that the rice doesn't soak it up. It'll keep in the fridge for a few days that way if you prep the individual components.

Substitutions and variations

Like most salads, this one is quite forgiving. Feel free to add in other ingredients. Tomatoes would be delicious! You can also play with the dressing a bit if needed or add more of an ingredient than suggested.

You can definitely omit the rice if that's not your thing and then add more of the other ingredients to compensate.

Try subbing the chili powder for Trader Joe's Chile Lime seasoning if you happen to have some on hand. It's one of my favorites.

What to serve with this salad

It's a great side dish with summer BBQ favorites such as these Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers or my Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs.

I also like it with Tex-Mex dishes like this Easy Taco Casserole Recipe or Creamy Taco Soup.

If you're eating it as a main course, simply serve it with a slice of crusty bread or tortilla chips and guacamole!

Leftovers and storage

This recipe serves 4 as a main course or up to 6 people as a side. Don't want leftovers? You could definitely halve the recipe if there's more than you think you'll need!

It'll keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days, but the avocado will lose its color. If you plan to have leftovers, add the avo in separately.

If it's been sitting out for more than 2 hours, I'd discard it.

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