Name: Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 1 ½ cups sweet corn (fresh or canned, drained); 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3 green onions, sliced; ½ cup chopped cilantro; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

There’s something deeply satisfying about a salad that manages to be hearty, fresh, and downright delicious all at once. This Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad is exactly that kind of dish. Bursting with colors and textures, it’s a perfect balance of nutty quinoa, crisp sweet corn, creamy black beans, and vibrant herbs that come together with a tangy lime dressing.

Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed lunch, a flavorful side for your next cookout, or a wholesome make-ahead meal, this salad fits the bill beautifully. It keeps well in the fridge, making it a great choice for meal prep, and the flavors only deepen with time. The best part? It’s just as delicious warm, cold, or at room temperature.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad

This salad is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something special. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and packed with fiber and plant-based protein. The bright lime dressing gives it a zesty twist, making every bite refreshing and lively.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Add avocado for creaminess, toss in feta for tang, or spice things up with jalapeños. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish or use it as a filling for wraps and lettuce cups. Every time you make it, you can give it a different spin.

Can I Use Canned Corn or Dried Beans Instead?

Absolutely! While fresh sweet corn adds a juicy crunch, canned corn works just fine if you’re short on time. Just drain it well. The same goes for beans. If you have dried black beans, cook them in advance and use about 1½ cups of the cooked beans to replace the canned version. You’ll still get that wonderful texture and flavor either way.

Ingredients for the Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad

This salad is all about wholesome staples, each bringing its own punch of flavor and texture to the mix.

Quinoa is the protein-packed grain that makes this salad hearty and satisfying. It cooks quickly and absorbs the citrus dressing beautifully.

Sweet Corn adds a burst of natural sweetness and crunch that contrasts so nicely with the beans and quinoa.

Black Beans are creamy, filling, and full of fiber. They make the salad more substantial.

Red Bell Pepper provides a crisp, juicy bite and a pop of color.

Green Onions add a mild, tangy sharpness that complements the lime dressing.

Cilantro lends a fresh herbal note that brightens up the whole dish.

Lime Juice is the zingy backbone of the dressing, adding brightness and balance.

Olive Oil brings everything together with a silky finish.

Salt and Pepper season the salad to taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.

How To Make the Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove any bitterness. Add it to a pot with double the amount of water, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prep the Ingredients

While the quinoa cooks, dice the red bell pepper, slice the green onions, chop the cilantro, and drain the black beans and corn (if using canned).

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sweet corn, black beans, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve it cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra cilantro or a lime wedge if desired.

How to Serve and Store This Salad

This Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad is perfect for feeding 4 to 6 people as a side, or 2 to 3 as a main dish. It shines at picnics, potlucks, and barbecue tables, especially because it doesn’t wilt like leafy greens.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor gets even better after a day, making it ideal for lunch prep or quick weeknight meals.

What to Serve With Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad?

Grilled Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the light and zesty flavors of the salad.

Baked Salmon

A flaky piece of salmon adds healthy fats and makes it a satisfying dinner.

Avocado Slices

A few creamy avocado slices on top turn this salad into a heartier meal.

Tortilla Chips

Scoop the salad with chips for a fun twist at parties.

Stuffed Peppers

Use this salad as a filling inside bell peppers for a colorful, baked dish.

Tacos

Add it to tacos as a fresh layer that adds texture and brightness.

Fried Plantains

Sweet and salty plantains bring out the salad’s earthy and citrus notes.

Spicy Shrimp

Pan-seared or grilled shrimp with a spicy rub makes this salad sing.

Want More Salad Ideas That Are Just as Satisfying?

If you’re loving this Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad, here are a few more wholesome dishes to add to your list:

Try the refreshing twist of the Classic Caprese Salad Recipe with juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella.
Add a creamy, comforting option with the Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta that balances richness with greens.
For something hearty and packed with veggies, the Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl is a flavorful favorite.
Give the Roasted Asparagus Recipe a go when you want a warm, easy side dish.
Or if you’re in the mood for creamy indulgence, the Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese hits the spot.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can whip it up anytime!

Have you tried it with grilled pineapple or added a smoky chipotle twist? I’d love to hear your spins on it! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out.

Explore fresh, satisfying recipes like this every day on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and keep your meals bright and full of flavor!

Conclusion

This Sweet Corn and Black Bean Quinoa Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create a dish that’s vibrant, filling, and crowd-pleasing. With its nourishing balance of protein, fiber, and bold flavors, it checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal or side. Whether you’re tossing it together for a backyard cookout or prepping a healthy lunch, it will bring sunshine to your plate and rave reviews to your table.