Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Corn Salsa is a vibrant, zesty side dish or topping made in just one bowl—fresh, colorful, and bursting with sweet corn, tangy lime, and a kick of spice. It’s perfect for tacos, grilled meats, or simply served with tortilla chips. Quick to make, easy to customize, and full of summery flavor.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh, frozen, or canned sweet cornlime juicechopped red oniondiced tomatoes or cherry tomatoesjalapeño or serrano pepper (optional for heat)chopped fresh cilantroolive oilsalt and black peppergarlic (minced, optional)avocado (optional, for creaminess)
directions
If using fresh corn, cook and cool it; if using frozen, thaw and drain; if using canned, rinse and drain.
In a large bowl, combine corn, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, chopped jalapeño, and cilantro.
Add lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
Gently stir to combine all ingredients.
Optional: Fold in diced avocado just before serving.
Taste and adjust lime juice, salt, or pepper as needed.
Chill in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes for best flavor, or serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 cups of salsa.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time (optional): 15–30 minutes
Total time: 10–40 minutes
Variations
Use grilled or charred corn for a smoky flavor.
Add black beans for protein and heartiness.
Mix in diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist.
Swap jalapeño for bell pepper if you want it mild.
storage/reheating
Store Corn Salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If using avocado, add it just before serving to avoid browning.
Do not freeze, as fresh ingredients will lose texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn?
Yes, just rinse and drain it well.
Is this salsa spicy?
It can be, depending on the pepper used—adjust to taste.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling.
How do I serve corn salsa?
With chips, on tacos, with grilled meats, or over salads.
Can I skip the oil?
Yes, the lime juice alone adds enough moisture.
What kind of corn is best?
Fresh is ideal, but frozen or canned works too.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes, but lime gives it a more classic salsa flavor.
How do I keep it from getting watery?
Drain tomatoes and corn well before mixing.
Is it vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally both.
Can I blend it?
It’s best served chunky, but you can pulse lightly for a more saucy texture.
Conclusion
Corn Salsa (One Bowl) is a quick, flavorful, and refreshing addition to any meal. Whether scooped with chips or spooned over grilled dishes, its bright, crunchy mix of ingredients brings a burst of summer to your table in minutes.
PrintCorn Salsa (One Bowl)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Corn Salsa is a vibrant and refreshing side or topping made with sweet corn, peppers, onion, lime juice, and fresh herbs—all tossed together in one bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- If using fresh corn, cook and cool it first. If using frozen, thaw; if canned, drain well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine corn, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- Add lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss everything together until well mixed.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Notes
- Use grilled corn for a smoky flavor twist.
- Great as a dip with chips or as a topping for tacos, salads, or grilled meats.
- Adjust jalapeño to taste for spice level.