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This zesty Salsa with Corn and beans is fresh, easy to make and oh, so delicious! It combines black beans, corn, tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic and lime juice for a flavourful and versatile topping or dip I just know you’re going to love!

Ok, ok. So I know we’re still straight smack dab in the middle of Winter here in Canada but don’t come at me for posting a classic Summer favourite! This corn and black bean salsa is SO good, I’m eating it ALL. YEAR. ROUND. Besides, I have to admit, I almost always literally forget that it actually is in fact still the dead of Winter in mid-February on the Island. How can you not with people already walking around in t-shirts and shorts?! Something UNHEARD of in Toronto this time of year. Unless of course, you’re crazy. But you know, that’s neither here nor there. The fact of the matter is that it stops feeling like Winter over here on the West Coast long before Winter is actually over. So, to me, Summer recipes are fair game!

black bean and corn salsa in a bowl with two spoons, red tortilla chips, bunch of cilantro and squeezed limes in the background

If you’re not as lucky as I am to have already given Winter its final farewell (I’m looking at you, Toronto friends), then just make this corn and black bean salsa instead. Before you know it, the combination of fresh and simple ingredients will transport you to Summer, even if the weather outside doesn’t quite match the vibe. It’s like a little taste of sunshine in every bite, bursting with fresh flavours that’ll seriously make you forget about the dreadful Winter.

And the best part? It’s so dang easy to make! So, what are you waiting for?! Soon you’ll be munching on tortilla chips, feeling like you’re lounging by the pool instead of bundling up in layers. Who needs warm weather when you’ve got a bowl of this goodness, am I right?

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE SALSA WITH CORN AND BEANS

inrgedients for salsa with corn and beans - corn, black beans, red onions, tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, jalapeno, limes, salt, pepper — *Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.*

Fresh, flavourful, vibrant, colourful AND incredibly delicious is the name of the game when it comes to this corn and black bean salsa. These simple ingredients come together to create something so dang delicious that it can be used as both a topping for all of your favourite things or as a dip! Let’s taco-bout each ingredient in a little bit more detail down below (sorry, I just had to…):

Black Beans: Add a hearty texture and savoury flavour to the salsa. Black beans are rich in protein, fiber and various nutrients such as folate, iron, and magnesium.
Corn: Provides a sweet, crunchy texture and a hint of natural sweetness to the salsa. Pairs perfectly well with the black beans and other ingredients. You can use fresh, frozen or canned corn in this recipe. Either way, be sure to thaw (if necessary) and drain the excess moisture before adding it to the salsa.
Tomato: Add acidity, moisture and a burst of freshness to the salsa.
Red Onion: Have a milder flavour compared to white or yellow onions and add a pop of colour to the salsa. They contribute a slightly sweet and crisp texture with a hint of sharpness.
Cilantro: Adds a refreshing and aromatic element to the salsa that is somewhat citrusy/peppery. Cilantro is a popular herb in Mexican cuisine, however, you can use fresh chopped parsley or basil instead, if you prefer.
Jalapeño: Provide a subtle spicy kick to this salsa with corn and beans. If you prefer more heat, feel free to use a hotter pepper instead.
Garlic: Brings a savoury and slightly spicy taste to the salsa. Therefore, fresh minced garlic works best in this recipe.
Lime Juice: Acidic and tangy, adding brightness and balancing the flavours of the salsa. It also helps to prevent oxidation of the ingredients and enhances their natural flavours. Freshly squeezed lime juice works best in this corn and bean salsa recipe.

hand dipping a red tortilla chip into a bowl of salsa with corn and beans

HOW TO MAKE CORN AND BLACK BEAN SALSA (KEY TIPS)

corn, tomato, red onions, cilantro and black beans on a red tortilla chip over a bowl with the rest

You can find full instructions for how to make this vibrant recipe for black bean and corn salsa in the recipe card down below, but here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. If there ever was a recipe based solely on freshness, this is it! You’re going to wanna make sure you choose ripe tomatoes, crisp red onions, vibrant cilantro, and firm jalapeños for the best flavour and texture. Fresh ingredients will seriously make a big difference in the taste of your salsa.
Properly drain and rinse canned ingredients. Make sure to drain and rinse the black beans and corn thoroughly before adding them to the salsa. This helps remove excess sodium and starch, resulting in a better texture and taste.
Chop the ingredients evenly and finely for best results. You don’t want one ingredient to over power the others and take over your salsa. If you keep the veggies to a fine dice, you’ll have a better chance of getting all of the flavours in every single bite. YUM!
Adjust ingredients to taste. Taste your salsa as you go and adjust the amounts of ingredients accordingly. If you prefer a spicier salsa, add more jalapeño peppers or use a hotter pepper altogether. If you like it more tangy, add extra lime juice. Tailor the recipe to suit your preferences. EXTRA TIP: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your salsa. Consider adding additional ingredients like diced avocado, mango or bell peppers for extra flavour and texture.
Allow your corn and bean salsa to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavours time to meld together and develop, resulting in a more cohesive and flavourful salsa.

black bean and corn salsa in a bowl, red tortilla chips, bunch of cilantro and squeezed limes in the background

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS CORN SALSA MADE OF?

Corn salsa typically consists of corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen), diced tomatoes, chopped onion (such as red or white), diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), finely chopped jalapeño or chili peppers for heat, fresh cilantro for freshness, lime juice for acidity, and salt and pepper for seasoning. These ingredients are mixed together to create a vibrant and flavourful salsa with a balance of sweet, savoury, tangy, and spicy flavours. Additional optional ingredients may include black beans, avocado, garlic, cumin, mango, or red wine vinegar, depending on personal preference and availability. Corn salsa is versatile and can be served as a dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, salads, grilled meats, or fish.

WHAT IS A SUBSTITUTE FOR BLACK BEANS IN SALSA?

If you’re looking for a substitute for black beans in salsa, you have several options depending on your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Here are a few of my favourite alternatives:

Kidney Beans: Kidney beans are similar in texture to black beans and have a slightly sweeter flavour. They can be used as a one-to-one substitute in salsa recipes. You can use red kidney beans or white kidney beans (cannellini beans).

Pinto Beans: Pinto beans are another great option with a creamy texture and mild flavour. They work well in salsa and can be used interchangeably with black beans.

Black-Eyed Peas: Black-eyed peas have a slightly earthy flavour and firm texture. They can add a different twist to your salsa and are often used in Southern-style salsa recipes.

Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans): Chickpeas have a nutty flavour and firm texture. While they are not as commonly used in salsa, they can still be a tasty alternative, especially if you enjoy their unique taste.

Edamame: Edamame are young soybeans that are tender and slightly sweet. While they are not traditional in salsa, they can be a creative and nutritious substitute for black beans.

WHAT CAN I ADD TO SALSA TO MAKE IT BETTER?

There are many ingredients you can add to salsa to enhance its flavour and texture. Here are some of my favourite things to add depending on my mood or the flavour profile I’m going for:

Avocado: Adding diced avocado can provide creaminess and richness to your salsa while also adding a boost of healthy fats.

Mango or Pineapple: Diced mango can add a sweet and tropical flavour to your salsa, balancing out the acidity of the tomatoes and lime juice.

Bell Peppers: Chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) can add sweetness and crunch to your salsa while also providing a pop of colour.

Cucumber: Diced cucumber can add a crisp and refreshing element to your salsa, especially if you enjoy a bit of crunch.

Hot Sauce or Chili Flakes: For extra heat, consider adding a few dashes of your favourite hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes.

Lemon, Lime or Orange Zest: Adding a bit of lemon or orange zest can add brightness and complexity to your salsa.

HOW MANY CALORIES ARE IN BEAN AND CORN SALSA?

The calorie content of bean and corn salsa can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and their quantities. However, I can provide you with a general estimate based on common ingredients.

A typical serving of bean and corn salsa (about 1/2 cup or 120 grams) might contain approximately 50-100 calories. This estimate can vary based on factors such as the ratio of beans to corn, the amount of added oil or other high-calorie ingredients, and any additional toppings or mix-ins. Please see the recipe card down below for the nutrient info based on this recipe.

SALSA WITH CORN AND BEANS

Yield: 6 Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

1 can (15 ounces) Black Beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) Corn Kernels, drained
1 large Tomato, diced
1 Jalapeño Pepper, seeded and chopped
2 Cloves Garlic, minced
1/2 Red Onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 Limes
Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, diced tomato, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño pepper, and minced garlic. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, burritos, or grilled meats.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 79Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 221mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 3gSugar: 10gProtein: 3g

Nutrition is only an estimate and calculated using Nutritionix.