Add a burst of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor to your meals with this Homemade Grilled Corn Salsa. Perfect as a side, topping, or dip, this salsa combines the natural sweetness of corn with the charred smokiness from grilling, balanced by fresh vegetables and zesty lime.
Quick to prepare and incredibly versatile, this grilled corn salsa pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, salads, and tortilla chips. It’s a fresh, colorful, and nutrient-rich addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 3 ears of fresh corn (or 2 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Grilling time: 10–12 minutes
- Total time: About 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush the corn with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
- Place corn on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are lightly charred.
- Remove from grill and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Cut the Kernels
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a mixing bowl.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- Add diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl with the corn.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
- Gently toss all ingredients to combine evenly.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
- Use as a topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or fish.
- Mix into quinoa or rice bowls for extra flavor and color.
- Serve with tortilla chips for a refreshing appetizer.
- Add to salads or wraps for a sweet and smoky crunch.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1/2 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Total Fat | 4 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 13 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 150 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Corn provides fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
- Bell peppers and onions add vitamin C, flavor, and crunch.
- Olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats.
- Cilantro and lime enhance flavor while keeping it fresh and low-calorie.
Tips for the Best Grilled Corn Salsa
- Use fresh corn for the sweetest flavor, but frozen corn works in a pinch.
- Grill until lightly charred for a smoky taste without overcooking.
- Adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapeño.
- Let the salsa sit in the fridge for a short while before serving for maximum flavor.
Variations to Try
- Add diced avocado for creaminess.
- Mix in black beans for a hearty, protein-packed version.
- Sprinkle with cotija or feta cheese for a salty contrast.
- Toss with a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin for extra depth of flavor.
This Homemade Grilled Corn Salsa is a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your meals. With sweet, smoky corn, fresh vegetables, and zesty lime, it’s colorful, nutritious, and versatile. Whether served as a topping, side, or dip, this salsa is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.