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Fresh Charred Corn and Black Bean Salad Easy Smoky Paprika Vinaigrette Recipe

A bright, smoky, and tangy salad featuring charred corn, black beans, and a smoky paprika vinaigrette. Perfect for quick meals, summer gatherings, and as a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears of fresh corn, husked (or about 3 cups frozen corn, thawed)
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lime juice)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Place husked corn directly on grill grates and turn every 2-3 minutes until all sides are charred with blackened spots, about 10 minutes total.
  2. Let the corn cool for a few minutes, then slice the kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Finely dice the red bell pepper and red onion. If using jalapeño, remove seeds and chop finely. Add these to the bowl with the corn.
  4. Drain and rinse black beans thoroughly, then add to the mixing bowl along with chopped cilantro.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  6. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. For best flavor, chill the salad in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to let flavors marry, or serve immediately if preferred.

Notes

Dry the corn before grilling to get better char marks. Soak chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow sharpness if desired. Letting the salad rest before serving deepens the smoky paprika flavor. Keep vinaigrette separate if prepping ahead to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: charred corn salad, black bean salad, smoky paprika vinaigrette, summer salad, easy side dish, grilled corn, vegan salad, gluten-free salad