This Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa recipe is a fresh and fun dish that works for every occasion — backyard BBQs, Taco Tuesdays, or just a snack craving. It’s colorful, customizable, and ready in no time!

Bowl of homemade Applebee’s black bean and corn salsa with chips
Save This Recipe Form

Want to save this recipe?

Enter your email below & I will send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get more great recipes from me on occasion!

Looking for a quick and flavorful appetizer or side dish that tastes just like Applebee’s? This copycat Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa is fresh, zesty, and easy to throw together in minutes.

Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping taco night, or just need a healthy snack, this salsa brings bold flavor with minimal ingredients — and it’s always a hit with the whole family!

Are you looking for more homemade dip recipes? Some of my favorites are AIR FRYER QUESO (MEXICAN CHEESE DIP), NINJA FOODI SPICY SAUSAGE QUESO DIP, THE BEST CARAMEL DIP, and AIR FRYER ARTICHOKE DIP.

Fresh Applebee’s black bean and corn salsa served in a white bowl with tortilla chips

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

  • Quick and Easy – It comes together in under 10 minutes with simple pantry staples.
  • Flavor-Packed – Sweet corn, hearty black beans, and zesty lime make every bite pop.
  • Versatile – Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips, spoon it over tacos, or use it in burrito bowls.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
  • Family Favorite – Kid-approved and perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings.

Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa Ingredients

Ingredients needed for Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa Recipe on kitchen table.
  • Black beans, drained and rinsed – Adds protein and hearty texture.
  • Sweet corn, drained – Brings natural sweetness and color.
  • Red onion, finely diced – Sharp flavor for a savory kick.
  • Tomato, diced – Adds freshness and juiciness.
  • Jalapeño, seeds removed and minced – For a mild heat; adjust to your taste.
  • Chopped fresh cilantro – Bright and herby flavor.
  • Lime juice (fresh is best) – Tangy, citrusy zing.
  • Salt and pepper – Balances and boosts all the flavors.

How To Make Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa

Add all of the ingredients for Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa Recipe in a mixing bowl.

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, diced onion, tomato, and jalapeño.

Step 2: Add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop — or serve immediately if you’re short on time!

Mix all of the ingredients well, until combined.

Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa Recipe Tips

  • Rinse Beans Well: Always rinse canned black beans to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
  • Use Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the salsa a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled.
  • Dice Ingredients Evenly: Uniformly chopped onion, tomato, and jalapeño create a better texture and balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Let It Chill: For best results, refrigerate the salsa for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  • Taste Before Serving: After chilling, taste and adjust salt, lime, or jalapeño to your liking.
  • Add Avocado Just Before Serving: If you want to add diced avocado, stir it in right before serving to avoid browning.
  • Customize the Heat: Like it hotter? Add extra jalapeño, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.

Storing Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store the salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Stir before serving, as some liquid may settle at the bottom.
  • Freezer: Not recommended. The fresh vegetables lose their texture once thawed, and the salsa becomes watery.
Applebee’s black bean and corn salsa served in a bowl with tortilla chips

Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen corn instead of canned? Yes! Just thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it in.

Is this salsa spicy? It has a mild kick from the jalapeño. You can adjust the spice by adding more or removing the seeds.

Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together.

How long does it last in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for up to 4–5 days.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lime? You can, but lime juice gives it that signature citrusy zing that pairs best with the ingredients.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free? Yes! It’s naturally both — just double-check your canned goods for any additives if needed.

Can I add other ingredients? Definitely! Try diced avocado, red bell peppers, or even a bit of cumin for extra depth.

Bowl of Applebee’s black bean and corn salsa with fresh cilantro and tortilla chips

More Copycat Applebee’s Recipes

Copycat Applebee’s Bourbon Street Steak Recipe

Applebee’s Onion Rings Copycat Recipe

Instant Pot Copycat Applebee’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Air Fryer Copycat Applebee’s Honey Grilled Salmon

Air Fryer Applebee’s Copycat Mozzarella Sticks

Applebee’s Almond Rice Pilaf

Instant Pot Copycat Applebees French Onion Soup

Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken Recipe

Applebee’s Honey Mustard Sauce

Crispy Applebee’s Copycat Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

Copycat Applebee’s Butter Pecan Blondies

Don’t Forget To Follow Us Along on Social Media; Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, and Join Our Facebook Page and group for all your Air Fryer Recipes and Tips!

Bowl of homemade Applebee’s black bean and corn salsa with chips

Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa Recipe

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Make this easy Applebee’s Black Bean and Corn Salsa at home! A fresh, zesty, and colorful dip or topping that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients 

  • 15 ounces black beans, .
  • 15 ounces sweet corn, drained
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro , chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice,
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine the 15 ounces black beans, 15 ounces sweet corn, diced 1 small red onion, 1 medium tomato, and 1 jalapeño.
  • Add the chopped 1/4 cup cilantro , 2 tablespoons lime juice, and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  • Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop — or serve immediately if you're short on time!

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spoon

Notes

The salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If fresh corn is in season, that would be a great substitute, just cut it off the corn of the cob, and toast it for 5 minutes in a skillet with a tablespoon of butter or olive oil before adding it to the rest of the ingredients.
If you prefer cilantro, substitute it for the parsley in the recipe.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving

Share this recipe

We can’t wait to see what you’ve made! Mention @forktospoon or tag #forktospoon!