If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful dip that packs a punch and brings a lovely twist to your snack game, then this Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish is an absolute must-try. It blends creamy black bean hummus, bursting with zesty lime and smoky paprika, with a lively, sweet-and-spicy corn relish that adds crunch and complexity. This dish is a perfect crowd-pleaser, offering a beautiful harmony of textures and bold flavors that will have everyone reaching for more.

Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this dish right is all about fresh, quality ingredients that each bring their unique magic to the table. The combination of creamy black beans and nutty tahini gives the hummus its rich base, while the fresh veggies and spices for the relish create that signature spicy-sweet crunch. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting your culinary adventure:

15 ounces canned black beans: A protein-packed foundation that’s smooth and velvety when blended.
3 tablespoons tahini: Adds a creamy, nutty undertone essential to any great hummus.
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro: Brings a bright, herbal note that lifts the dip.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Introduces warm earthiness to the hummus.
2 garlic cloves, minced: For that sharp, aromatic kick.
2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds fresh acidity and zing, balancing out the richness.
½ jalapeño, seeded and minced: A gentle heat that complements without overwhelming.
1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Smooths out the texture and adds a subtle fruitiness.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a lovely smoky depth to the hummus.
½ teaspoon coarse salt, pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
1 ½ cups fresh corn (cut from cob): The star of the relish, providing sweetness and crunch.
2 tablespoons diced red onion: Adds sharpness and color contrast.
2 tablespoons canned green chilis, drained: Lends a mild heat and vibrant green color.
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves: Sprinkled into the relish for freshness.
½ green and ½ red bell pepper, diced: Sweet and colorful pieces that brighten the relish.
¼ teaspoon celery seed: Provides a subtle herbal depth.
½ teaspoon mustard seed: Adds a slight pungent crunch.
3 tablespoons white sugar: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
¼ teaspoon ground cumin (for relish): Ties the relish to the hummus with cohesive flavor.
⅓ cup apple cider vinegar: Gives the relish its tangy bite.
¼ teaspoon coarse salt: Enhances all the relish ingredients.
½ teaspoon red chili flakes (more to taste): Ramps up the heat to your preference.

How to Make Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Corn Relish

Start by combining all your relish ingredients—corn, red onion, green chilis, cilantro, bell peppers, celery seed, mustard seed, sugar, cumin, apple cider vinegar, salt, and red chili flakes—in a small pot. Bring this mix to a lively boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for five minutes while stirring frequently. This simmering melds the sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors into a vibrant relish with just the right amount of bite. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool completely—cooling lets the flavors intensify and meld perfectly.

Step 2: Whip Up the Black Bean Hummus

While your relish cools, grab your food processor and toss in the black beans, tahini, cilantro, cumin, minced garlic, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend everything until the mixture becomes luxuriously smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides if needed. This step is where the magic happens; the black beans turn silky and the fragrant spices swirl together to make a hummus that’s anything but ordinary.

Step 3: Assemble Your Dish

Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and generously top it with the cooled spicy corn relish. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro leaves on top for an additional burst of color and freshness. This layering of creamy hummus and zesty relish creates a dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

How to Serve Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro leaves immediately lifts the dish’s aroma and appearance. For extra flair, consider adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top or a pinch of smoked paprika. A few thinly sliced jalapeño rings on the relish add both heat and a pop of color that will make your Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish truly irresistible.

Side Dishes

This dip serves as an excellent partner to crispy pita chips, freshly cut veggie sticks, or crunchy tortilla chips. It also works beautifully as a spread in wraps or sandwiches alongside grilled chicken or roasted veggies. When paired with fresh bread or crackers, it makes a fantastic appetizer or snack that invites everyone to dig in and share.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve this Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish in a shallow bowl on a rustic wooden board surrounded by colorful vegetable sticks, pickled jalapeños, and a vibrant mix of olives. Another fun idea is to use the hummus as a base for a layered dip, adding diced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt to mellow the spicy corn topping. The playful contrast of textures and flavors makes it a conversation starter at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your leftovers fresh by storing the Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the relish is cooked and cooled, it keeps beautifully, and the flavors actually deepen after resting overnight. Just make sure to stir gently before serving again.

Freezing

If you make a big batch, freezing is a handy option. Freeze the hummus and corn relish separately in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

The corn relish benefits from a light reheating to bring back some warmth and release its aromas. Simply warm it gently in a saucepan or microwave before topping your hummus, which is best served chilled or at room temperature. This way, you preserve the hummus’s creamy texture while enjoying the relish at its most flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn for the relish?

Absolutely! While fresh corn from the cob adds the best texture and sweetness, canned corn works well too—just drain it thoroughly and adjust the sweetness if needed.

Is the Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish very spicy?

The heat level is moderate but flexible. The jalapeño and chili flakes provide a gentle kick, and you can adjust these to make it milder or hotter based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a perfect snack for diverse diets.

How long does the Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish stay fresh?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, it stays fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.

What can I use instead of tahini if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have tahini, try using smooth almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor, though the taste will be slightly different.

Final Thoughts

Bringing together the creamy richness of black beans and the exciting zest of a spicy corn relish, this Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Corn Relish is a game-changer for your snack and appetizer lineup. Its vibrant flavors, pleasant texture contrasts, and easy preparation make it a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become one of your new favorites to share with friends and family, no matter the occasion!