Description
This chipotle corn salsa recipe features fire-roasted kernels and cilantro, offering a smoky aroma and vibrant color. It’s a healthy, delicious side perfect for weeknight dinners or joyful gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups sweet corn, fresh or frozen (thawed)
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced, plus 1 teaspoon of sauce
- 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 0.25 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, fresh-squeezed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Roast Your Corn: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 2 minutes). Add corn kernels and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to char and smell sweetly ‘fire-roasted’. (Alternatively, air fry them at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden).
- Prep Your Veggies: While the roasted corn cools slightly, finely mince the chipotle peppers (don’t forget that adobo sauce), fresh cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño (if using).
- Combine Everything: In a medium bowl, gently combine the warm, fire-roasted corn with the minced chipotle peppers, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño. Give it a good stir to distribute.
- Dress and Season: Pour in the fresh lime juice, then season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything well to ensure all the ingredients are coated in the tangy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: For the best melded flavors, cover the bowl and chill your salsa in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Adjust chipotle peppers to your spice preference (one pepper for mild, two for more kick). If you are not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or chives can offer a milder green. For a kid-friendly version, remove jalapeño seeds for less heat or omit entirely. Shortcuts: Utilizing pre-chopped onions and frozen fire-roasted corn makes this a quick meal prep recipe component. Flavor Upgrades: A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cumin can add extra depth. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop Roasting, Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup (approx 100 g)
- Calories: 120 calories
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg