Fresh Summer Black Bean & Corn Salad | A Colon-Healthy Recipe

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, colorful foods that not only taste great but also support your health. One of the best ways to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is by eating a diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.

This simple Black Bean & Corn Salad is packed with ingredients that help keep your digestive system healthy while delivering plenty of flavor. It's easy to prepare, perfect for cookouts, and tastes even better after it has chilled for a few hours.

Why This Recipe Is Colon Healthy

High in Fiber
Black beans provide an excellent source of fiber, which supports healthy digestion and may help lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

Loaded with Vegetables
Corn, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and cilantro are full of vitamins, antioxidants, and plant compounds that help protect your cells.

Healthy Fats
Avocado provides heart-healthy fats that help your body absorb important nutrients from vegetables.

Light & Fresh
Instead of heavy, creamy dressings, this salad uses fresh lime juice and olive oil for flavor without excess saturated fat.

Summer Black Bean & Corn Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

  • 2 cans low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained

  • 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or grilled)

  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • ½ red onion, finely diced

  • 1 avocado, diced

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

  • Juice of 2 limes

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • ½ teaspoon chili powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, avocado, and cilantro.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

  5. Enjoy as a side dish, scoop it with whole-grain tortilla chips, or serve over grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Jaime Hann