Description
Memories in Every Spoonful: How Black Bean and Corn Relish Became a Family Favorite. A vibrant, easy relish made with black beans, sweet corn, bell peppers, onion, lime, and cilantro—perfect for every gathering, from BBQs to weeknight meals. This versatile recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and comes together in minutes, bringing color and flavor to any table.
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn, drained (or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 yellow or orange bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (or parsley or mint for variation)
- Juice of 1–2 limes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup diced mango or pineapple, 2 tablespoons red wine or apple cider vinegar, 1 diced avocado
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, diced red onion, and bell peppers.
- Add jalapeño, fresh cilantro, and any optional fruit or avocado if using.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika or chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the bean and corn mixture. Toss gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasonings—add more lime, salt, or pepper as desired.
- Let the relish sit for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Serve as a dip with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or fish, or as a side salad.
Notes
For a smoky twist, use roasted corn or add extra smoked paprika. The relish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To prep ahead, chop veggies and combine just before serving. Add avocado right before serving to keep it fresh. Try with mango or pineapple for a tropical version—kids love it!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg