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Once you’ve mixed the black beans, corn, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro, it's time to bring everything together with the dressing. The dressing is where the magic happens; it enhances the flavors of the ingredients and gives the salad its zesty kick. For this recipe, we recommend a dressing made from fresh lime juice, olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Zesty Black Bean and Corn Salad Cups

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Black Bean and Corn Salad Cups, perfect for any occasion. This delightful dish combines black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and more, all brought together with a zesty lime dressing. Not only are these salad cups visually stunning, but they are also packed with nutritious ingredients that ensure a delicious and healthy meal. Easy to prepare and customize, they make an irresistible appetizer or side dish for gatherings. Impress your guests with this colorful and tasty treat!
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Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and thoroughly rinsed

1 cup sweet corn (can be fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced

1/2 small red onion, finely chopped

1 ripe avocado, diced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

Juice of 2 limes

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

12 mini taco shells or tortilla cups (store-bought or homemade)

Optional: diced jalapeños for an extra kick

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Allow the dressing to sit for a few minutes to blend the flavors together.

    Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed black beans, sweet corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Gently fold in the diced avocado last to prevent it from becoming mushy.

      Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently with a spatula or large spoon until all components are evenly coated. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice if desired. If you enjoy some heat, feel free to mix in diced jalapeños at this stage.

        Assemble the Cups: Carefully take the mini taco shells or tortilla cups and fill each with a generous scoop of the zesty black bean and corn salad mixture, ensuring each cup is packed with flavor.

          Serve: Arrange your filled salad cups on a vibrant serving platter. For a touch of elegance, garnish with additional cilantro leaves or a wedge of lime placed beside each cup.

            Enjoy: These delightful cups can be enjoyed immediately for a fresh and zesty treat or chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavor profile. They're perfect for parties, picnics, or as a light lunch option.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 12 servings