Black beans are not just a staple in Latin American cuisine, but they have also carved a niche for themselves in kitchens around the world. This side dish, combining the heartiness of black beans with the freshness of corn, tomatoes, and green onions, is vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly wholesome. Whether you’re looking to complement a grilled chicken, serve alongside a Mexican main, or just wish for a flavorful protein-rich salad, this recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked black beans (if using canned, rinse and drain)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
- 4 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
- Optional: Crumbled feta cheese or queso fresco for topping
Instructions:
- Preparation: If you’re using frozen corn, start by thawing it. If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob.
- Sautéing the Base: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about a minute. Make sure the garlic doesn’t burn, as it will turn bitter.
- Add Veggies: Introduce the corn to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until it’s just beginning to get a golden color. Follow this with the black beans, stirring gently to mix them in without mashing.
- Seasoning: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure that the spices coat the beans and corn evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Incorporating Fresh Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat. Mix in the diced tomatoes and green onions. Drizzle with the lime juice and give it a good but gentle stir, making sure everything is well combined.
- Final Touches: If you’re using cilantro, sprinkle it on top for a fresh burst of flavor. For a bit of creamy contrast, you can add crumbled feta cheese or queso fresco.
- Serving: Serve this dish warm as a side or even cold as a salad. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, rice dishes, or tortilla chips.
This black bean dish, rich with flavors and textures, promises not only health benefits but also a culinary experience that’s both robust and refreshing. Its versatility means you can adapt it to various cuisines, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection. So, the next time you’re looking for a side dish that’s a bit out of the ordinary but completely delicious, remember this black bean recipe!
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