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SUMMER ESSENTIAL
Smoky Charred Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salsa
★★★★★
5.0 (198)|(2 Reviews)Sweet corn kernels blistered in a screaming hot skillet, tossed with black beans, ripe tomatoes, diced jalapeño, and fresh lime juice.
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By Sara Bir (Senior Culinary Producer)•Published July 18, 2026
⏱ 20 mins
Simply Recipes / Sara Bir🔥 120 kcal
WHY MAKE THIS
- Charring the corn caramelizes natural sugars for an irresistible deep flavor.
- Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and high in fiber.
- Tastes even better the second day after the flavors have marinated together.
SUMMER ESSENTIAL
Smoky Charred Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salsa
Bursting with smoky sweetness, zesty lime, and crisp cilantro, this vibrant salsa works equally well as a standalone chip dip or spooned over grilled chicken and fish tacos.
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings8 servings
Scale Recipe:
📱Keep Screen Awake While Cooking
Ingredients
- 3 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1 tbsp neutral oil or olive oil
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and thoroughly drained
- 1 cup diced roma tomatoes, seeds removed
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely minced
- 1/3 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- Juice of 2 fresh limes (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt & freshly cracked pepper
- Crisp tortilla chips for dipping
Directions
1
Char the corn
Heat oil in a heavy cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add corn in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until charred on the bottom. Stir and cook 2–3 minutes more until blistered.
2
Cool slightly
Transfer charred corn to a wide mixing bowl and let cool for 5 minutes so it does not wilt the fresh herbs.
3
Combine all ingredients
Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
4
Toss and chill
Toss thoroughly to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lime or salt. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
💡 CHEF'S PRO TIPS
- If using frozen corn, pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels before hitting the hot pan to get proper charring.
- Add a diced creamy avocado right before serving for extra rich texture.
Nutrition Facts
Per ServingCalories120 kcal
Protein5g
Carbs22g
Total Fat2.5g
Sodium: 220mg
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 2g
Community Reviews & Ratings
2 cooks have shared their thoughts on this recipe
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Sarah M.★★★★★
This has completely replaced my normal avocado toast! The beans blend so well you cannot even tell, and I stay full until lunchtime!
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David K.★★★★★
Great trick for adding protein without cooking eggs on busy mornings. Added a pinch of red pepper flakes and lemon zest—delicious.
