Description
This Fresh Corn Salsa recipe is a vibrant and flavorful side dish inspired by Chipotle's famous salsa. Made with sweet corn, ripe tomatoes, tangy lime juice, and a mix of fresh herbs and spices, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and mild heat. Ideal as a dip with chips or a topping for tacos and grilled meats, this salsa comes together quickly and easily.
Ingredients
Fresh Corn Salsa
- 4 ears sweet yellow corn, cooked (or 3 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- 1 pound tomatoes, seeded and diced (preferably Roma)
- ⅓ cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- ⅓ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup lime juice (from 2 limes), plus more to taste
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Sea salt, to taste
- Chili powder or hot sauce, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the corn: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the ears of corn and cook them until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain the corn and rinse it briefly under cold water just until cool enough to handle.
- Prepare the kernels: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the kernels off the cob and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Combine ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl with the corn kernels.
- Season to taste: Sprinkle in sea salt and, if desired, chili powder or hot sauce. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Adjust lime juice and seasoning: Taste the salsa and add more lime juice or salt as needed to balance the flavors.
- Serve or chill: The salsa can be served immediately or chilled for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes.
Notes
- For convenience, frozen corn can be used instead of fresh; just thaw the corn before using.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your preferred heat level, or omit for mild flavor.
- Chilling the salsa for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors develop and blend beautifully.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best citrus flavor.
- This salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican