Imagine a salad so vibrant, refreshing, and packed with flavor that it transforms your boring lunch routine into a culinary adventure! This Black Bean Corn Edamame Salad isn't just another side dish – it's a nutritional powerhouse that combines the protein-rich goodness of black beans and edamame with sweet corn, all dancing together in a tangy cilantro-lime dressing. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, meal preppers, and anyone looking to add a burst of excitement to their plate, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup edamame, shelled
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by rinsing the black beans thoroughly under cold water and draining completely. If using frozen corn and edamame, thaw them at room temperature.
- Finely dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad. Chop fresh cilantro leaves, discarding the thick stems.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained black beans, corn, and shelled edamame. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add the diced red onion and chopped cilantro to the bean and corn mixture. Toss lightly to integrate all ingredients.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil to create the dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Pour the lime and olive oil dressing over the salad and mix thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. This chilling time will enhance the overall taste profile.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste, adjusting seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light lunch, garnishing with extra cilantro leaves if desired.
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: Ensure your ingredients are at similar temperatures for the best flavor melding. Thaw frozen corn and edamame completely and drain beans thoroughly.
- Chop with Precision: Cut red onions and cilantro finely to distribute flavors evenly throughout the salad.
- Marination Magic: Don't skip the 15-20 minute chilling time! This allows the flavors to blend and intensify, transforming a good salad into a great one.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or swap cilantro for parsley if you prefer. This recipe loves a personal touch!
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
