Bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors, the Zesty Black Bean & Corn Salad with Creamy Vegan Cotija is a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. This lively dish marries the earthy richness of black beans and the sweet crunch of fresh corn with a tangy, citrus-infused dressing that awakens the palate. What truly sets it apart is the luscious, dairy-free vegan cotija cheese-a creamy and zesty topping that elevates every bite without compromising on plant-based goodness. perfect as a light lunch, a side for your next barbecue, or a crowd-pleasing potluck favorite, this salad is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and inventive cooking. Dive in and discover how simple pantry staples can transform into something unexpectedly spectacular.
zesty Black Bean & Corn Salad with Creamy Vegan Cotija is a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that transforms a simple side dish into an unforgettable summer favorite.Inspired by the lively street markets of Mexico, this salad embraces the perfect harmony of tangy citrus, smoky spices, and the rich creaminess of the vegan cotija, inviting you to savor every bite with fresh, crisp ingredients that celebrate nature’s bounty.
Prep and Cook Time
Planning: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 as a side dish or 4 as a light main course
Difficulty Level
Easy – Perfect for home cooks of all skill levels looking to impress with bold,fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 ½ cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears) or frozen, thawed
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes (about 4 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Creamy Vegan Cotija:
- 3/4 cup raw cashews, soaked 2-4 hours then drained
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2-3 tablespoons water (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro. Toss gently to mix.
- Create the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the salad ingredients and toss until every component glows with a zesty finish.
- Make the creamy vegan cotija: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and sea salt. Blend until smooth, gradually adding water to achieve a crumbly yet creamy texture reminiscent of conventional cotija cheese.
- Assemble: spoon the zesty black bean and corn salad onto a serving platter or individual bowls.Dollop the creamy vegan cotija generously over the top or scatter it evenly,creating a beautiful contrast of colors and textures.
- Final touch: Garnish with extra fresh cilantro leaves and a few lime wedges to brighten the presentation and encourage a fresh squeeze at the table.
Tips for Success
- Substitution for cashews: If you have nut allergies, try using unsweetened shredded coconut soaked in warm water or firm tofu blended with lemon juice for a different but still creamy vegan cotija.
- boost the crunch: Add diced jicama or cucumber for extra refreshing texture and hydration on hot days.
- Make ahead: The salad tastes best fresh but can be prepared up to 2 hours in advance.Store the vegan cotija separately and add just before serving to maintain its creamy appeal.
- Serving temperature: Serve chilled or at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust the heat: Omit jalapeño or add more depending on your spice tolerance; roasted poblano peppers are a smoky option.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Black Bean and Corn Salad
This zesty black bean and corn salad with creamy vegan cotija shines luminous when paired with a crisp, chilled margarita or a sparkling cucumber agua fresca.For a gallery-worthy presentation, serve it on a rustic wooden board with grilled plantains or tortilla chips on the side, inviting guests to scoop and savor.
Layering it atop a bed of fresh butter lettuce or stuffing into soft corn tortillas creates a festive taco variation, perfect for lively gatherings.You can also complement it with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds to enhance crunch and earthiness.
The creamy vegan cotija not only adds tang and richness but also gives this salad a decadent touch that pairs exquisitely with smoky grilled veggies or spicy roasted sweet potatoes for a wholesome, balanced meal.
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zesty Black Bean & Corn Salad with Creamy Vegan cotija | 210 | 8 g | 30 g | 7 g |
For more fresh and colorful vegan recipes, check out our Vegan Mexican Recipes Collection. To explore the nutritional science behind black beans and their benefits, visit Healthline.
Q&A
Q&A: All About Zesty Black Bean & Corn Salad with Creamy Vegan Cotija
Q: What makes the Zesty Black Bean & Corn Salad so special?
A: This salad is a vibrant party in your mouth! The black beans offer hearty, protein-packed goodness while the sweet corn adds a burst of summery sweetness. Tossed in a lively zesty dressing, it’s a refreshing, energizing dish that dances between smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors.
Q: Why use vegan cotija cheese, and what exactly is it?
A: Traditional cotija is a crumbly Mexican cheese with a salty, tangy punch, perfect for sprinkling. Vegan cotija recreates that magic using plant-based ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of smoked paprika-giving you all the creamy, crumbly goodness without dairy. It’s great for those seeking a dairy-free or vegan option without sacrificing flavor.
Q: How do you achieve the “zesty” flavor in this salad?
A: The zest comes alive with a bright lime juice splash and a kick of chili powder or cayenne. A touch of garlic and chopped fresh cilantro adds that garden-fresh zing. Balancing citrus, spice, and a hint of sweetness makes this salad zing with flavor in every bite.
Q: Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It actually tastes better after resting a bit, allowing the flavors to meld. Prepare it a few hours in advance, keeping the creamy vegan cotija separate until serving to preserve its texture. Just give it a gentle toss before plating, and you’re set.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free and allergy-amiable?
A: Yes! This salad is naturally gluten-free and, depending on your vegan cotija recipe, can be nut-free and soy-free as well. Using whole, unprocessed ingredients keeps it wholesome and accessible for many dietary needs.
Q: What are some great ways to serve this salad?
A: Versatility is its middle name! Serve it as a side at your next barbecue, pile it onto tacos or burrito bowls for extra flair, or enjoy it as a light, protein-rich lunch. It even shines as a vibrant topping for avocado toast or crunchy tortilla chips.
Q: Can this recipe be customized?
A: Of course! Swap black beans for pinto or kidney beans, add diced red peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and heat, or sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds for a nutty twist. The zesty dressing adapts beautifully to your favorite fresh herbs, to.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add the vegan cotija just before serving again to maintain that creamy texture and fresh flavor punch.
This salad isn’t just food-it’s a colorful, nutritious celebration in a bowl. Ready to zest up your meals? Grab your mixing bowl and let’s make some magic!
In Retrospect
As you wrap up your culinary adventure with this Zesty Black Bean & Corn Salad draped in creamy vegan cotija, you’re not just savoring a dish-you’re celebrating vibrant flavors and thoughtful plant-based creativity. this salad’s lively mix of textures and bold, tangy notes proves that vegan cooking can be as indulgent as it is indeed nourishing. Whether served as a refreshing side, a hearty lunch, or a colorful addition to your next gathering, it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something spectacular. So next time you crave a dish that’s bright, nutritious, and brimming with zest, remember this recipe and let your taste buds dance with every bite.
