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Chili Lime Bean Salad Recipe

4.9 from 150 reviews

A refreshing and zesty Chili Lime Bean Salad featuring a hearty mix of chickpeas, black beans, roasted corn, and vibrant veggies tossed in a tangy lime vinaigrette with smoky spices, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1, 15 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1, 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup frozen fire roasted corn, thawed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 jalapeno, finely diced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, minced
  • 1 avocado, cubed

Dressing Ingredients

  • Zest of one lime
  • Juice of 2 limes or 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 large clove of garlic, crushed or 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder or Tajin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the salad ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, add the rinsed chickpeas, black beans, thawed fire roasted corn, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, minced cilantro, and optional jalapeno. Gently stir to combine all the fresh components.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl or cup, whisk together the lime zest, fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, maple syrup, crushed garlic (or garlic powder), cumin, chili powder or Tajin, smoked paprika, and salt until well combined into a vinaigrette.
  3. Dress the salad: Pour the prepared lime dressing over the bean and vegetable mix. Toss gently to evenly coat all the ingredients with the flavorful vinaigrette.
  4. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and for the salad to chill thoroughly.
  5. Add avocado before serving: When ready to serve, gently fold in the cubed avocado, tossing lightly once more to integrate it without mashing. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors.

Notes

  • The jalapeno is optional and can be omitted or adjusted based on your spice preference.
  • If you prefer a bit more sweetness, adjust the maple syrup quantity to taste.
  • The salad can be prepared a day in advance excluding the avocado, which should be added just before serving to prevent browning.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best zing and brightness in flavor.

Keywords: Chili lime bean salad, chickpea salad, black bean salad, vegan salad, lime dressing, smoky spices, healthy salad, no cook salad