Amazing Black Bean and Corn Nachos with Balsamic Glaze

Many years ago, I was visiting an out of town friend and during my stay she made the best nachos. She shared the recipe with me and I want to show you how to make the most amazing black bean and corn nachos with balsamic glaze.

These are so good and have an unusual ingredient that isn’t typical of nachos. I think that ingredient is what takes them to the next level.

My friend Kim, who shared the recipe, we lovingly refer to as Martha, as in Martha Stewart.

Anytime we visit, she has a full weekend of meals planned that are always fabulous.

Her pantry is so well stocked and impressive that it might make even Martha envious.

And you can bet her home will be sprinkled with charming seasonal decor anytime we visit right down to the treats in the candy jar on the kitchen island.

The best part is that I always come home with so many new amazing recipes.

This particular recipe was one that she came home and recreated after having similar nachos at a restaurant.

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ingredients for black bean and corn nachos

1 can (2 cups) black beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups fresh grilled corn on the cob or 1 can whole kernel corn or 2 cups frozen whole kernel corn
1/3 cup green onions, chopped
1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar (my favorite is Sua Maesta, which is more the consistency of a glaze or syrup than vinegar)
1 cup grated cheese for topping (I like to use colby jack)
fresh lime
tortilla chips
fresh jalapeños, chopped (optional)

directions for black bean nachos with balsamic vinegar

If you are using fresh grilled corn on the cob, you will want to grill your corn first thing.
After your corn has cooled, cut the corn kernels from the cob.
Rinse and drain your black beans.
Next, mix all ingredients except grated cheese, together in a large bowl and give it a fresh squeeze of lime.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and lay out tortilla chips on the pan in a single even layer.
Place a spoonful of the black bean mixture on top of each tortilla chip.
Add grated cheese to the top of each one.
Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 3-4 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
Take out of the oven and drizzle with a bit more of the balsamic vinegar and serve while hot.
Serve with a side of guacamole, sour cream, fresh salsa or pico de gallo.

how to grill corn on the cob

First, you need to oil the grates of your grill.
Remove husks and all silks from the fresh corn.
Place corn on grill with medium heat and cook for approximately 15 minutes, turning corn about every 3-4 minutes until grilled on all sides.
Remove corn from grill and let cool.
Using a sharp knife and a cutting board, cut the corn kernels off the cob.

variations for black bean and corn nachos with balsamic vinegar

I like to use fresh grilled corn on the cob for this recipe, but you can also use canned whole kernel corn or frozen whole kernel corn. Be sure and drain the canned corn, or thaw the frozen corn before adding to your recipe.

In my opinion, fresh is always best, but don’t let that deter you from trying this recipe. The canned or frozen corn will work just fine.

This black bean and corn mixture with balsamic vinegar also makes a great side dish. It can easily be served as a black bean and corn salad or corn salsa in place of adding it to tortilla chips for nachos.
It is similar to a salad referred to as Texas Caviar or Cowboy Caviar, but much tastier in my opinion.

If you have some of the vegetable mixture left over, you can store it in an airtight container for several days.

I like to use a good quality balsamic vinegar. It has a thicker consistency like a glaze or syrup and almost a sweet flavor to it. My favorite is Sua Maesta. The flavor is incredible and it also makes a great salad dressing mixed with olive oil.

This is such an easy recipe and is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Salty tortilla chips, fresh corn and the addition of balsamic vinegar take this unconventional nacho recipe to the next level.

It is perfect for a game day party, backyard cookout gathering, or appetizer for a Mexican food dinner.

I hope you enjoyed this recipe for amazing black bean and corn nachos with balsamic glaze.

Give it a try for your next party and I would love to hear if you try it!

blessings and happy cooking,