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Fresh Zesty Corn Salsa Recipe with Jalapeño and Lime

fresh zesty corn salsa - featured image

A bright and fresh corn salsa with jalapeño, lime, and a subtle smoky twist, perfect for summer gatherings or as a versatile dip.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn, kernels removed (about 3 cups)
  • 1 medium jalapeño, finely diced (remove seeds for milder heat)
  • ½ small red onion, finely diced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Optional: 1 avocado, diced (added just before serving)

Instructions

  1. Hold each ear of corn upright on the cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice downward to remove kernels. You should get about 3 cups (450 grams) of fresh kernels. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
  2. Slice the jalapeño lengthwise, remove seeds for less heat, then finely dice. Use half the jalapeño or substitute with a milder pepper if sensitive to spice.
  3. Finely dice ½ a small red onion (about ½ cup) and roughly chop ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves.
  4. In a medium bowl, add corn kernels, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently to mix.
  5. Squeeze the juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons) over the mixture. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Use a spoon or small whisk to stir everything together until well combined.
  7. Cover and chill for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. If adding avocado, fold it in just before serving.

Notes

If corn isn’t at peak sweetness, grill ears for 5-7 minutes before cutting kernels for a smoky flavor. Allow salsa to rest at least 15 minutes for best flavor. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Adjust jalapeño heat by removing seeds or substituting milder peppers.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn salsa, fresh salsa, jalapeño salsa, lime salsa, summer dip, easy salsa, homemade salsa, zesty corn salsa