Ingredients in Black Bean Salad

The basic structure of a black bean salad is black beans (canned or freshly made) with corn kernels (canned, frozen, or fresh). Parsley, basil, or cilantro add an herby note to the flavors. Tomatoes or red bell pepper add some sweetness and color. Lemon juice and/or lime juice add some acid. Jalapeño or cumin will give it a kick, and avocado and olive oil will smooth it down.

How To Make the Best Black Bean Salad

I find adding a little bit of sugar almost always helps balance the acid from the citrus and tomatoes, and makes for a better tasting salad. Obviously, this salad will be extra delicious if you have freshly cooked corn and beans on hand. (Here’s how to make beans in a pressure cooker!) But if you don’t, just use the canned beans and frozen corn (we used white corn here).

More Black Bean Recipes to Try!

Summer Veggie Tacos Grilled Lime Chicken With Black Bean Sauce Chicken and Black Bean Tostadas Quinoa Bowls with Sweet Potatoes, Black Beans, and Spinach Easy Black Beans and Rice

This black bean salad uses cilantro. For those of you who don’t like cilantro, feel free to substitute with fresh basil. Then, gently fold in the chopped avocados.