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Close-up of vibrant black bean and corn relish in a rustic bowl, garnished with cilantro, with blurred tortilla chips and a taco in the background.Brighten your table with this fresh and flavorful Black Bean and Corn Relish – perfect for any occasion!
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Black Bean and Corn Relish

This vibrant Black Bean and Corn Relish is a fresh, zesty, and versatile dish bursting with the flavors of sweet corn, earthy black beans, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing. Perfect as a dip, topping, or light side.
Course Appetizer, Condiment, dip, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southwestern, Tex-Mex
Keyword Black Bean and Corn Relish
Prep Time 15 minutes
chilling time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8 (1/2 cup per serving)
Calories 180kcal
Author C. Sophie

Ingredients

  • 1 can 15 ounces black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned and drained
  • 1 red bell pepper finely diced
  • 1/2 red onion finely diced
  • 1-2 jalapeño peppers seeded, deveined, and minced (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice about 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • Optional: 1/2 small avocado diced (add just before serving)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup diced fresh tomato add just before serving
  • Optional for a tangier relish: 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Optional for a sweeter relish: 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Instructions

  • Prepare ingredients: Rinse and drain black beans. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain thoroughly. Finely dice the red bell pepper and red onion. Seed, devein, and mince the jalapeño pepper. Chop the fresh cilantro.
  • Combine: In a large bowl, combine the drained black beans, corn, finely diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
  • Dress: Add fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, ground cumin, and garlic powder to the bowl. If desired, incorporate chili powder, red wine vinegar (for tanginess), or sugar (for sweetness) to achieve your preferred relish profile.
  • Mix and Chill: Gently toss all ingredients until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. If adding avocado or tomato, gently fold them in just before serving.
  • Serve: Serve chilled as a versatile relish. It's excellent as a dip with tortilla chips, a vibrant topping for tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or fish, or as a refreshing side dish for any meal.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, 1/2 cup):

  • Calories: 150-200
  • Total Fat: 8-12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1-2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 250-350mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20-25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 6-8g
  • Total Sugars: 3-5g
  • Protein: 5-7g
  • *This relish is a good source of Vitamin C and A, rich in fiber, and plant-based protein. It is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Values may vary based on specific brands, portion sizes, and optional ingredients used.*