Name: Easy Corn Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: PT-487995H28M30S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 3 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1 avocado, diced; Optional: 1/2 cup diced tomatoes or green onions

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This corn salsa is light, refreshing, and incredibly versatile. It can be made with fresh, frozen, or canned corn, and you can easily customize the heat level to your liking. It’s a great make-ahead recipe for parties, barbecues, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Red onion, finely chopped
Jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
Red bell pepper, diced
Cilantro, chopped
Fresh lime juice
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional: avocado, diced tomatoes, green onions

Directions

If using fresh corn, grill or boil until tender, then cut kernels off the cob. If using frozen, thaw; if canned, drain well.
In a large bowl, combine corn, red onion, jalapeño, bell pepper, and cilantro.
Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper.
Mix well and adjust seasonings to taste.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Servings and timing

Serves 6 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 15–45 minutes

Variations

Roasted Corn Salsa: Char corn on the grill or in a skillet for a smoky flavor.
Avocado Corn Salsa: Add diced avocado for creaminess.
Black Bean Corn Salsa: Stir in black beans for extra protein and texture.
Mango Corn Salsa: Add diced mango for a sweet and tropical twist.
Spicy Corn Salsa: Use serrano peppers instead of jalapeño for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Not recommended for freezing, as the vegetables lose their fresh texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn for corn salsa?

Yes, just thaw and drain it before mixing.

Is canned corn okay to use?

Yes, but make sure to drain and rinse it well.

Do I have to cook the corn first?

No, raw fresh corn is sweet and crunchy, but cooking adds depth of flavor.

How spicy is this salsa?

It depends on the amount of jalapeño and whether you keep the seeds.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

What can I serve corn salsa with?

Tortilla chips, tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or as a side for barbecues.

Can I add tomatoes to this salsa?

Yes, diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes add extra freshness.

How do I keep avocado from browning in corn salsa?

Toss avocado in lime juice before mixing it in.

Is corn salsa healthy?

Yes, it’s full of fiber, vitamins, and fresh ingredients.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, it’s perfect for large gatherings or meal prep.

Conclusion

Corn salsa is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish that works as both a dip and a topping. Whether you enjoy it with chips, tacos, or grilled meats, its balance of sweet corn, zesty lime, and spicy jalapeño makes it a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe.