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Black bean and corn relish in a rustic bowl with tortilla chips

Black Bean and Corn Relish


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  • Author: Dana
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

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

Scale
  • 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 12 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

  1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, diced red onion, and bell peppers.
  2. Add jalapeño, fresh cilantro, and any optional fruit or avocado if using.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika or chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the bean and corn mixture. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings—add more lime, salt, or pepper as desired.
  6. Let the relish sit for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  7. 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