Chipotle Corn Salsa

Introduction

This vibrant and zesty Chipotle Corn Salsa has become a staple in our household. Inspired by the beloved Roasted Chili Corn Salsa from Chipotle, it perfectly balances sweetness and spice, making it an excellent addition to a variety of dishes. Whenever I make this salsa, my family can’t resist diving in with tortilla chips, and it always garners compliments at gatherings. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, adding it to tacos, or simply enjoying it with chips, this salsa is a crowd-pleaser that elevates any meal!

Ingredients

• 2 cups frozen white corn, thawed
• 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh jalapeño, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cilantro, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure all the flavors meld together.

Combine Corn and Mixture

2. In a large bowl, add the thawed corn and sprinkle with salt. Then, pour in the cilantro mixture and stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Chill

3. Cover the bowl and chill the salsa in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Serve

4. Serve the salsa chilled as a dip or as a topping for your favorite dishes.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: 90
• Total Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 19g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve

This Chipotle Corn Salsa is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• As a dip for tortilla chips
• Topped on tacos or burritos
• Mixed into salads for extra flavor
• As a filling for quesadillas
• As a garnish for grilled chicken or fish

Additional Tips

1. Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before dicing.
2. Fresh Corn Option: For a fresher taste, you can use cooked corn on the cob instead of frozen corn.
3. Customize Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, feel free to reduce the amount or substitute with parsley for a different flavor.
4. Make Ahead: This salsa can be made a few hours in advance; just keep it refrigerated until serving.
5. Experiment with Flavors: Try adding diced bell peppers or a pinch of cumin for extra depth of flavor.

Recipe Variations

Roasted Chili Corn Salsa with Poblanos

• Roast 1 large (or 2 small) poblano peppers over a gas stove or grill until charred. Place them in a bowl covered with plastic wrap for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, remove the stem, seeds, and ribs, then chop finely. Add to the corn mixture for a smoky twist.

Roasted Chili Corn Salsa with Fresh Corn

• Boil 3-4 ears of corn, cool them in an ice bath, cut off the kernels, and use 2 cups for this recipe. This will give a delightful crunch and fresh flavor.

Big Batch Chipotle Corn Salsa

• For a larger gathering, use:
• 4 cups white corn
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeño
• 1/2 cup diced cilantro
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled meats such as chicken or steak.
• Add to a burrito bowl for a burst of flavor.
• Pair with fresh guacamole for a delicious appetizer spread.
• Use as a topping for nachos for added freshness.
• Mix into pasta salads for a unique twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the salsa for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?

Yes, canned corn can be used. Just make sure to rinse and drain it well.

2. What if I don’t have fresh jalapeños?

You can use pickled jalapeños for a tangy flavor, but adjust the quantity to taste.

3. Can I make this salsa spicy?

Absolutely! Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

4. How long should I let the salsa chill?

Chilling for at least 30 minutes is recommended to enhance the flavors.

5. Is this salsa gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

6. Can I use another type of onion?

Yes, yellow or white onions can be used as substitutes for red onion.

7. Can I omit cilantro completely?

Yes, you can omit it, but it will change the overall flavor profile.

8. How can I make this salsa sweeter?

Add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to balance out the acidity if desired.

9. What dishes pair well with this salsa?

It pairs well with tacos, burritos, grilled meats, and as a dip for chips.

10. Can I add other vegetables to the salsa?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, tomatoes, or avocados for more variety!

Conclusion

This Chipotle Corn Salsa is an easy, quick recipe that delivers big on flavor. Whether you’re using it as a dip for tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant taste, this salsa is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the delightful burst of flavors that this salsa brings to the table!

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