Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos Recipe

Imagine a dish that’s incredibly satisfying, easy to prepare, and packed full of flavor- that's what you have in these Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos. They are a delightful fusion of sautéed black beans and sweet corn tossed in tangy lime and feta. The combination is a colourful, flavour-filled, and a perfect go-to for a quick and delicious meal.

Photos of Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos Recipe

Most ingredients are common and should be readily available in your pantry or fridge. However, some ingredients like cilantro, red radishes, jalapeño and feta cheese may not be readily available and you'd need to pick them from your local supermarket. Cilantro and jalapeño are key for the flavor, while feta cheese brings a Mediterranean touch to this Mexican delight, and radishes add a crunchy freshness.

Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos Ingredients Breakdown

Corn: Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch to these tacos. When in season, you can use fresh corn cobs. But frozen corn works just as well.

Cilantro: Cilantro brings in a burst of freshness and is used in the corn salad.

Red radishes: Radishes offer a peppery flavor and a crunchy texture.

Lime: Lime is used for its tangy flavor, which balances the sweetness of the corn.

Jalapeño pepper: Adds heat to the tacos. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spice.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the beans and in the corn salad dressing.

Feta: Crumbled feta provides a salty contrast to the sweet corn.

Black beans: They are the protein-packed star of these tacos.

Onion: Onions are sautéed with the black beans for added flavor.

Cumin: Ground cumin gives a warm, earthy flavor to the black beans.

Corn tortillas: Small, round corn tortillas are used as the base of these tacos.

Avocado: Slices of avocado add a creamy element to these tacos.

One reader, Devlin Avina says:

This sweet corn and black bean tacos recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The corn salad is so fresh and zesty, and the black beans are perfectly seasoned. The addition of avocado and pickled jalapeños takes it to the next level. A must-try for taco lovers!

Devlin Avina

Essential Techniques for Making Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos

How to prepare corn salad: Slice the kernels off the corn cobs and mix with cilantro, radishes, lime zest and juice, jalapeño, olive oil, and sea salt. Stir in crumbled feta and set aside to marinate.

How to prepare black beans: Cook onions in olive oil, add cumin, then pour in the beans and water. Simmer, mash up at least half of the beans, and season with salt and pepper.

How to warm tortillas: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla individually, flipping occasionally. Alternatively, warm them directly over a low flame on a gas range. Fold a tea towel over the warmed tortillas to keep them warm.

How To Make Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos

Have a hearty meal with these hearty black bean tacos. They come with a refreshing corn salad tossed with feta, cilantro, jalapeno, and lemon juice.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Corn and Feta Salad:

2cupscorn,(2 ears of corn), shucked
¼cupchopped cilantro
3medium red radishes,thinly sliced into small strips
1medium lime,zested and juiced, to yield about 1 tsp zest and 2 tbsp lime juice
1medium jalapeño pepper,seeded and minced
1tbspolive oil
¼tspsea salt
⅔cupcrumbled feta,to taste, optional

For Black Beans:

2cansblack black beans,(or 3 cups cooked black beans), rinsed and drained
1tbspolive oil
1small onion,yellow or white, chopped
1tbspground cumin
⅓cupwater
salt and black pepper,to taste

For Other Ingredients:

10small round corn tortillas,gluten free for gluten-free tacos
1large avocado,sliced into thin strips

For Optional Garnishes:

pickled jalapeños
salsa verde
hot sauce

Instructions

Corn Salad:

To prepare the corn salad, use a sharp chef’s knife to slice the kernels off all four sides of the corn cobs.
Transfer the kernels to a medium-sized mixing bowl and add the chopped cilantro, radishes, lime zest and juice, jalapeño, olive oil, and sea salt. Mix well.
Stir in ½ cup crumbled feta, taste, and add a little more if desired. Set the bowl aside to marinate while preparing the beans.

Black Beans:

To prepare the black beans, warm the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and a sprinkle of salt.
Cook for about 5 to 8 minutes stirring occasionally, until the onions have softened and are turning translucent. Add the cumin and cook for about 30 seconds while stirring.
Pour in the beans and ⅓ cup water. Stir, cover, and reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, then remove the lid and use the back of a fork to mash up at least half of the beans.
Remove from heat, season generously with salt and pepper, to taste, and cover until ready to serve.

Tortillas:

To warm the tortillas, heat a cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla individually, flipping occasionally.
Alternatively, warm them directly over a low flame on a gas range. Fold a tea towel over the warmed tortillas to keep them warm.

To Assemble:

Spread black beans down the middle of each tortilla. Top the beans with corn salad.
Place a slice of avocado to the side of the beans and serve with optional pickled jalapeños, salsa, or hot sauce on the side.

Nutrition

Calories: 257.12kcal
Fat: 10.02g
Saturated Fat: 2.69g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.30g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.42g
Carbohydrates: 35.42g
Fiber: 10.44g
Sugar: 3.32g
Protein: 9.87g
Cholesterol: 8.90mg
Sodium: 476.23mg
Calcium: 116.45mg
Potassium: 566.74mg
Iron: 2.87mg
Vitamin A: 19.66µg
Vitamin C: 11.34mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Taco Technique

When preparing the corn salad, it's important to let it marinate for a while before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more robust and complex flavor profile. Similarly, when preparing the black beans, mashing up at least half of the beans creates a creamier texture and helps to thicken the mixture, making it easier to spread on the tortillas. Lastly, warming the tortillas before assembling the tacos makes them more pliable and less likely to break when filled.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Tacos

Prep ahead: You can prepare the corn salad and black beans in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will save you time when you're ready to assemble the tacos.

Use canned beans: Opt for canned black beans instead of cooking them from scratch. This will significantly cut down on the preparation time and make the recipe more convenient.

Multi-task: While the beans are simmering, you can simultaneously warm the tortillas. This efficient use of time will help streamline the cooking process.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp chef's knife will make quick work of slicing the corn kernels off the cobs, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.

Batch cooking: Consider making a larger quantity of the corn and black bean mixture, which can be used for multiple meals throughout the week. This can be a time-saving strategy for future meals.

Substitute Ingredients For Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos Recipe

corn - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to corn and can provide a delicious alternative in the tacos.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable replacement for black beans in the tacos.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro, making it a good substitute for those who do not enjoy the taste of cilantro.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can offer a similar citrusy tang to lime and can be used as a substitute in the recipe.
jalapeño pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell pepper can provide a mild heat and a crunchy texture similar to jalapeño, making it a suitable substitute for those who prefer a milder flavor.
feta - Substitute with cotija cheese: Cotija cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor to feta, making it a great substitute for the salad.
black beans - Substitute with kidney beans: Kidney beans have a similar creamy texture and earthy flavor, making them a suitable replacement for black beans in the recipe.
corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used as a substitute for corn tortillas, providing a different texture and flavor to the tacos.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole can be used as a flavorful alternative to sliced avocado in the tacos, adding a creamy and rich element to the dish.

Creative Ways to Serve Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos

Elevate the corn and feta salad: Arrange the vibrant corn and feta salad in a delicate taco shell to create a visually stunning and appetizing base for the dish.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Place the black bean mixture in a neat line down the center of the taco, ensuring a balanced and visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with avocado slices: Artfully place slices of ripe avocado alongside the black beans to add a pop of color and a touch of creamy texture to the dish.
Incorporate pickled jalapeños: Introduce a hint of heat and tang by adding a few carefully placed pickled jalapeños to the plate, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Drizzle with salsa verde: Add a touch of brightness and acidity by drizzling a vibrant salsa verde over the tacos, creating an eye-catching and flavorful finishing touch.
Sprinkle with crumbled feta: Delicately sprinkle additional crumbled feta over the top of the tacos, adding a final touch of savory richness and visual appeal.
Serve on a wooden platter: Present the tacos on a rustic wooden platter to create a warm and inviting visual aesthetic, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tacos

Sharp chef's knife: A sharp chef's knife is essential for slicing the corn kernels off the cobs and for various other cutting tasks in the kitchen.
Large saucepan: A large saucepan is used for cooking the black beans and allows for easy stirring and simmering.
Cast iron or non-stick skillet: This skillet is used to warm the tortillas over medium heat, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Tea towel: A tea towel is used to keep the warmed tortillas covered and maintain their warmth until they are ready to be served.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Tacos

To store leftover sweet corn and black bean tacos, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to store the components separately, keep the black beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, and the corn salad for up to 3 days.
To freeze the black beans, let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
The corn salad does not freeze well due to its high water content, which can cause the vegetables to become mushy upon thawing.
To reheat the black beans, place them in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Warm the tortillas in a skillet or directly over a low flame before reassembling the tacos.
While it's best to enjoy the avocado fresh, you can store any unused portion by brushing the cut surface with lemon juice or lime juice, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating for 1-2 days.

How To Reheat Leftover Tacos

Reheat the black beans in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to moisten them.
For the corn salad, you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, sauté the corn kernels in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. Then, mix in the remaining ingredients.
Warm the tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds.
If you have any leftover avocado, brush the exposed flesh with lime juice or store it in an airtight container with a slice of onion to prevent browning.
Assemble the tacos by spreading the warm black beans on the tortillas, topping with the corn salad, and adding a slice of avocado. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, hot sauce, or pickled jalapeños.
Alternatively, you can create a taco bowl by layering the black beans, corn salad, and toppings over a bed of lettuce or rice.

Interesting Trivia About Sweet Corn and Black Beans

Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish that can be traced back to the 18th century. They were originally sold by street vendors and were made with a variety of fillings, including fish, pork, and beef. Today, tacos are enjoyed worldwide and have evolved to include a wide range of ingredients and flavors, such as the sweet corn and black bean filling in this recipe.

Are These Tacos Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

This sweet corn and black bean tacos recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as corn, black beans, and avocado, are affordable and easily accessible. The recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and budget-friendly meal option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20, making it an economical choice for a delicious and nutritious dinner. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos Healthy?

The sweet corn and black bean tacos recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of nutrients from various ingredients. Here's a breakdown of the health aspects:

Positive health factors:

Black beans provide a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals
Corn is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants
Radishes and jalapeños add vitamin C, folate, and other micronutrients
Avocado contributes healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber
Cilantro and lime juice provide additional vitamins and antioxidants

Potential health concerns:

The recipe includes feta cheese, which is high in saturated fat and sodium
Corn tortillas, depending on the brand, may be processed and contain added preservatives or unhealthy oils
The sodium content of the dish may be high, especially if salt is added generously or if canned beans are not rinsed

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for reduced-fat or fat-free feta cheese to lower the saturated fat content
Choose whole-grain or sprouted corn tortillas for added fiber and nutrients
Rinse and drain the canned black beans to reduce the sodium content
Include additional vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or tomatoes, to increase the vitamin and fiber content
Use a light hand when adding salt, and consider using lime juice or herbs for added flavor instead
Serve the tacos with a side salad or a serving of leafy greens to boost the overall nutrient density of the meal

By making these minor adjustments, you can transform this already relatively healthy dish into an even more nutritious and well-rounded meal that supports a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos

The sweet corn and black bean tacos recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The vibrant corn and feta salad brings a burst of freshness, complemented by the hearty and well-seasoned black beans. The combination of zesty lime, spicy jalapeño, and creamy avocado adds depth to the dish, while the optional garnishes provide a customizable touch. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements, making it a versatile and satisfying meal option for any occasion.

Enhance Your Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole with ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, finely chopped onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Mango Salsa: Whip up a refreshing and sweet mango salsa with diced mangoes, red onions, cilantro, and a splash of tangy lime juice.

Cilantro-Lime Rice: Prepare a fragrant and flavorful cilantro-lime rice using fluffy white rice, chopped fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of zesty lime juice.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love These Tacos

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling them to perfection on skewers.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Top grilled chicken with a refreshing salsa made with ripe mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Coconut Curry Soup: Simmer vegetables and protein in a rich and creamy coconut curry broth for a comforting and flavorful soup.

Berry Crisp: Combine fresh berries with a crispy oat topping for a delightful and easy dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Tacos Perfectly

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy dip featuring spinach and artichokes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for a satisfying and comforting snack.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and light dessert. The combination of sweet and tart flavors creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any time of day.

Why trust this Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the sweetness of corn with the earthy richness of black beans. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients promise a feast for the senses. With the zesty kick of lime and jalapeño, the corn and feta salad adds a burst of tangy freshness. The creamy avocado complements the hearty black beans, creating a harmonious balance. This recipe is a celebration of wholesome, flavorful Mexican cuisine, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Want to share your own twist on Sweet Corn and Black Bean Tacos or discuss the recipe with fellow cooking enthusiasts? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn for the salad?

Yes, you can use frozen corn as a substitute for fresh corn in the salad. Just make sure to thaw and drain the corn before using it in the recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the corn salad and black beans ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply warm the tortillas and assemble the tacos.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by omitting the feta cheese and using a vegan cheese alternative. Additionally, you can replace the feta with a dairy-free yogurt or a cashew-based cream for a creamy element in the salad.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the tacos?

Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before adding it to the corn salad. You can also adjust the amount of jalapeño to suit your spice preference.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

While corn tortillas are traditionally used for tacos, you can certainly use flour tortillas if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different, but it's a great way to personalize the recipe to your liking.

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