Roasted Sweet Corn Salsa

Roasted Sweet Corn Salsa is a fresh, vibrant, and slightly smoky dip or topping that’s bursting with summer flavor. Made with charred corn, juicy tomatoes, zesty lime juice, and a mix of peppers and herbs, this salsa is perfect for serving with chips, spooning over grilled meats, or layering into tacos and salads. It’s a colorful, crowd-pleasing favorite that tastes just as good as it looks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salsa is bright, sweet, tangy, and smoky all at once—thanks to the natural sugars in the corn caramelizing as they roast. It’s a great way to use fresh summer corn but works just as well with frozen or canned. The ingredients are simple, but the flavor is bold and refreshing. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side, it adds a burst of color and crunch to any meal.

Ingredients

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

• Fresh corn on the cob (or frozen/canned corn)
• Olive oil
• Cherry tomatoes (halved) or Roma tomatoes (diced)
• Red bell pepper (diced)
• Jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped)
• Red onion (finely chopped)
• Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: garlic, avocado, cumin, or black beans for extra flavor and variety

Directions

this recipe

1. Roast the corn: Brush corn cobs lightly with olive oil and grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and golden. Let cool, then cut kernels off the cob. (If using frozen corn, sauté in a skillet until golden; for canned, drain and dry roast in a pan.)
2. Prep the vegetables: Chop all remaining vegetables and herbs. If using jalapeño, adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together roasted corn, tomatoes, red bell pepper, jalapeño, onion, and cilantro.
4. Add lime and season: Drizzle with lime juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.
5. Chill or serve immediately: Let the salsa sit for 10–15 minutes for the flavors to meld, or serve right away with tortilla chips or as a topping.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10–12 minutes
• Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Add avocado: Dice fresh avocado for a creamy twist—add just before serving.
• Black bean version: Stir in canned black beans (rinsed and drained) for added protein.
• Spicy salsa: Add extra jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Sweet and smoky: Add a pinch of smoked paprika and a drizzle of honey.
• Tex-Mex flair: Mix in crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as liquid may settle. This salsa is best served cold or at room temperature—reheating is not recommended, as it may soften the vegetables and dull the fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, thaw it and sauté in a hot skillet until slightly charred.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can roast corn in a hot skillet or under the broiler, turning to get even char.

Is this salsa spicy?

It can be! Adjust the jalapeño to your taste or leave it out for a milder version.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

Can I add fruit?

Absolutely—diced mango or pineapple adds a sweet contrast to the smoky corn.

What dishes go well with corn salsa?

Serve with tacos, grilled chicken, fish, burrito bowls, or simply with tortilla chips.

Can I freeze this salsa?

Freezing isn’t recommended due to the fresh vegetables, which may become mushy.

What type of tomatoes should I use?

Cherry or Roma tomatoes work best as they’re less watery and hold their shape.

How do I store leftover roasted corn?

Cut it off the cob and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I use lemon instead of lime?

Yes, but lime gives the most authentic, tangy flavor for salsa.

Conclusion

Roasted Sweet Corn Salsa is a bright, zesty side dish that brings bold flavor and fresh ingredients together in one colorful bowl. Whether you’re scooping it with chips, spooning it onto tacos, or serving it as a salad topper, this simple recipe adds a burst of summer to every bite. Make a batch, chill it down, and watch it disappear—it’s a guaranteed hit!

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