Black Bean Corn Salsa Dip

This black bean corn salsa dip is the ultimate quick and easy appetizer. Made with fresh veggies, pantry staples, and just the right amount of zing, this recipe is a must for parties, meal prep, or anytime snacking!

about this black bean corn salsa dip

This is the kind of dip that shows up to a party and suddenly becomes the main event. It’s fresh, colorful, and somehow both light and satisfying.

This black bean corn salsa dip is everything you want in a party bowl: a little crunch from the veggies, a touch of sweetness from the corn and agave, and a whole lot of flavor thanks to lime juice, jalapeño, and cumin. No cooking, minimal cleanup, and it’s wildly easy to throw together ahead of time.

In fact, it’s better if you can give it time for the flavors to come together!

Whether you’re serving it with chips, spooning it over tacos, or just going at it straight from the bowl, this one earns a permanent spot in your appetizer rotation.

ingredients

black beans. Drain and rinse the beans before using to reduce the sodium and rinse off any metallic flavor from the can.

corn. You can use frozen corn that’s been thawed and quickly microwaved until tender. Fresh corn kernels are also another great option if it’s in season.

tomatoes. Roma tomatoes are best for this recipe. Be sure to remove the seeds before dicing for less liquid and more texture.

bell pepper. We like to use red bell pepper, but you can also use green, orange, or yellow bell pepper.

onion. You will need one red onion for this recipe.

jalapeño. Remove the seeds before dicing the jalapeno. If you like a spicier salsa, you can leave in the seeds.

spices. You will need a combination of salt, garlic powder, ground cumin, and freshly cracked black pepper.

lime. Using fresh lime juice is best!

olive oil. Use extra-virgin olive oil with a light flavor profile so it doesn’t overpower the recipe.

agave. Adds a touch of sweetness to the salsa. You can omit it as well if you prefer or use honey instead.

cilantro. Use freshly chopped cilantro to add depth to the salsa dip.

this recipe’s must-haves

To make this recipe, you will need a cutting board and a chef’s knife to help you with all the chopping.

You’ll need a colander to drain and rinse the black beans before using them in the recipe.

Grab a large mixing bowl from your set of mixing bowls to make the salsa.

here’s how to make black bean corn salsa dip

stir

Add the black beans to a colander. Drain and rinse them well before adding to a large mixing bowl.

Combine the remaining ingredients with the black beans, stirring until incorporated and well-combined.

chill

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator. Let chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors come together.

Serve with tortilla chips.

More easy dip recipes to make: Four Cheese Pizza Dip | Spicy Lasagna Dip | Chunky Salsa | Pineapple Mango Salsa

tips and tricks

use fresh corn when in season. When you can, use fresh corn! It adds a touch of crispness and natural sweetness. You can also steam it or grill it before adding to the recipe.

got juicy tomatoes? If your tomatoes are naturally extra juice, simply give them a quick pat dry before adding them to the salsa.

make it for a crowd. Double the recipe easily to serve at a party!

let it chill. Do not skip the chilling time in the fridge. This is what really brings the flavors together!

variations

add avocado. To make this dip a little heartier, dice up some avocado and stir it in just before serving.

make it tex mex. Add in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese or cojita cheese.

use grilled corn. Instead of using frozen corn, use grilled corn to add a smoky flavor to the salsa.

no cilantro? If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can use flat-leaf parsley instead, or simply omit it if you are one of those cilantro-tastes-like-soap folks.

can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s better to give it at least 30 minutes to 1 hour in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together.

is this dip vegan and gluten-free?

This dip is naturally both – no swaps needed! Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free chips.

can I used canned corn instead of frozen?

While you can use canned corn, canned corn has a stronger and slightly metallic flavor. If you go this route, we recommend rinsing the corn well and draining before using in this recipe.

how long is corn and black bean salsa good for?

This salsa will be good for up to 3 to 4 days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

can you freeze black bean and corn salsa?

No, we do not recommend freezing this salsa recipe. The texture will become mushy. It’s much better to enjoy it immediately, or within a few days.

Need more inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizer recipe page!

what to serve with black bean corn salsa

We usually serve this recipe as an appetizer paired with a big bag of tortilla chips! However, this recipe can do more than just be an appetizer to snack on before dinner.

Use it for taco night as a topping for tacos like these guacamole tacos, chipotle chicken tacos, or these shredded beef tacos (or burritos or nachos!).

Pair it with your favorite grilled meats like a grilled full chicken or grilled new york strip steak.

With the leftovers, you can top off your favorite salads, bowls, or even quesadillas (we love this veggie avocado quesadilla!).

how to store

Store. Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Stir before serving as the lime juice can settle at the bottom. We do not recommend freezing this recipe – this dip is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

more easy ways to use a can of black beans

For a vegetarian dinner, make these roasted butternut squash black bean tacos! Topped with an easy crema, you’ll love the textures and flavors.

Loaded sweet potato nachos keep things gluten-free while also packing in heartiness with black beans and a variety of veggies on top.

Slow cooker creamy white chicken chili is comforting, flavorful, and super easy to make.

Finally, if you make this black bean salsa recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

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