All the variations of corn and black beans I have seen are a cold salad. I was looking for a new side dish to make with corn. After browsing through several recipes, I decided to go with a warm side dish that included corn, black beans, and red peppers.
This side dish pairs well with anything barbecued! The peppers and corn give crunchy and sweet elements. The black beans add another texture. Add your spices for additional flavor and you can’t go wrong. Not only is this side dish delicious, but the corn and black beans make a complete protein.
Importance of Complete Proteins
What is a complete protein? Some foods are already complete proteins because they contain all the essential amino acids your body needs to function. When you mix two incomplete proteins, such as beans and corn, they make a complete protein. (Ex. – rice and beans, corn and beans) In a nutshell, if you mix beans you with a grain you get a complete protein. Your body can now use all the essential amino acids it needs to the following:
- Assisting in the creation and growth of muscles, connective tissue, and skin.
- Assist in maintaining muscle tone and tissue strength.
- Heal and repair.
- Normal digestion.
- Providing energy for your body
INGREDIENTS
- 1 can of corn
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons margarine
- 1 can of black beans
- 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- salt
- pepper
- 1 clove garlic, chopped small
Making corn and black beans is super simple and amazingly flavorful. Let’s get down to business.
In a large frying pan add the margarine and olive oil. Before you add the black beans make sure you drain and rinse them well. Add the black beans, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let them cook for about 3 minutes. Throw in the bell pepper and the corn. Mix it all together and cook until everything is warmed through. This should only take another 1-2 minutes.
Turn off the pan so the corn and bell pepper stay crisp. Taste the corn and black beans to check the seasoning.