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Chipotle corn salsa is the ultimate way to give any gathering a kick of flavor. The roasted sweetness of the corn mingles perfectly with smoky chipotle peppers, bright lime juice, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re dressing up tacos, topping off grilled chicken, or simply scooping it up with tortilla chips, it’s sure to bring sunshine to your table.
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for extra heat)
- 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Begin by warming a skillet over medium-high heat and adding the olive oil. Toss in the corn kernels and sauté them, letting the kernels sizzle until they start to caramelize. This process intensifies their flavor and highlights their natural sweetness. While they’re toasting, keep an eye out for a slightly golden color—you’ll want a bit of browning without overcooking the kernels.
Transfer the golden-brown corn to a large bowl, then stir in the chopped chipotle peppers, diced red onion, and (if you like a little extra punch) the minced jalapeño. Sprinkle in the chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh, herbal brightness. Add a splash of lime juice, followed by the ground cumin, which lends a gentle earthy note. Finally, season the salsa generously with salt and pepper, tasting as you go until the flavors sing together.
Give everything a thorough but gentle toss. For best results, let the salsa sit for about 15 minutes so the flavors can mingle and develop. This short resting period makes all the difference, infusing each bite with smoky, citrusy perfection.
(It’s delicious served right away, though, if you simply can’t wait!)
Feel free to adjust any ingredient quantities to suit your personal level of heat, zest, or saltiness.
For a fun twist, try adding diced tomatoes or swapping in roasted poblano peppers. If you’re looking to cut back on heat, simply leave out the jalapeño. For a lower-sodium version, lightly reduce the salt or omit it altogether—chipotle peppers bring ample flavor on their own. This salsa hits just the right note for any casual get-together, backyard cookout, or midweek meal, and you’ll love how easily it pairs with everything from crisp tortilla chips to chicken fajitas. Enjoy this smoky, bright, and irresistible side that proves a few simple ingredients can make a big, bold impact.
