Chipotle Corn Salsa the Ultimate Copycat Recipe

Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bit of sunshine in a bowl? This Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat) recipe nails that tangy, smoky, sweet flavour. Honestly, it is almost as good as the original!
Brief Overview
This vibrant corn salsa is inspired by the popular Mexican restaurant's offering. It's a quick and easy recipe. Prep takes around 20 minutes, cook time is just 10 (if you roast the corn).
This will serve about 4-6 people.
Main Benefits
This Fresh Corn Salad is packed with flavour and offers a good source of vitamins and fiber. It's amazing for barbecues, summer potlucks, or as Appetizer Snacks for your next party.
It's a winner because it's dead easy to make and seriously addictive.
From Garden to Grub: Getting Started
Alright, so this Chipotle Corn Salsa is all about fresh, zingy flavours with a kick. The secret ingredient? Chipotle peppers in adobo.
They bring the smoky heat that makes this salsa so special. Trust me, once you've tasted this Spicy corn salsa , you'll never buy store-bought again.
The Magic of Corn
You can use fresh, frozen or even grilled corn for this recipe. Grilling gives it a lovely smoky flavour. It will then transform this Corn Salads into Grilled corn salsa , but frozen kernels work a treat too.
Just make sure they are properly thawed. Honestly, I've made it both ways, and it always turns out amazing.
Making it your own Chipotle copycat recipe
Now, don't be afraid to tweak this Chipotle copycat recipe to your liking. More lime for a tangy kick? Go for it.
Extra jalapeño for more heat? Knock yourself out. This Mexican corn salad is a blank canvas for your taste buds! It is a great Summer salsa recipe .
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat)
Alright, let's get down to what you need to make this banging Chipotle Corn Salsa . Honestly, it's mostly stuff you probably already have. Remember to check the freshness!.
Main Ingredients Breakdown
Here's the shopping list to nail this Chipotle Corn Salsa . Get ready for some flavour. This Corn Salsa recipe requires precision!
- Corn: You'll need 2 cups (about 340g ) of corn. Frozen is fine, just make sure it's thawed. Fresh is better for that sweet summer vibe, you know?
- Olive Oil: Use 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ) of extra virgin olive oil. This helps roast the corn nicely.
- Red Onion: Grab 1/4 cup (around 30g ) of red onion. Dice it finely . No one wants big chunks of onion.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: 1-2 chipotle peppers. Finely minced. Start with one if you're spice shy.
- Adobo Sauce: You'll also need 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ) of the adobo sauce from the can. That's where the smoky magic happens.
- Cilantro: Get 1/4 cup (about 15g ) of fresh cilantro. Roughly chop it. If you're one of those people who hate cilantro, parsley is your best (but not perfect) bet.
- Lime Juice: Squeeze out 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ) of fresh lime juice. Bottled stuff just doesn't cut it.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (around 2.5g ), or to taste. Salt brings everything together.
- Ground Cumin: Add 1/4 teaspoon (about 1.25g ) for warmth.
- Jalapeño (Optional): If you're feeling brave, add 1 seeded and minced jalapeño. Careful, they can pack a punch!.
For the corn, look for plump kernels, whether frozen or fresh. Good chipotles should be soft and fragrant. Did you know this fresh Corn Salad can be served with grilled meats?
Seasoning Notes to spice up your Spicy corn salsa
Forget boring. We're layering flavours here, not just chucking things in a bowl. Cumin with chipotle? Oh my gosh! . That's a win.
- Essential Spice Combination: Chipotle and cumin are the power couple here.
- Flavour Enhancers: Lime juice is key for brightness. Fresh cilantro adds a zesty note. The red onion adds a little bit of bite.
- Quick Subs: No chipotle? Smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne can fake it.
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple. This Chipotle copycat recipe does not require fancy equipment.
- Large Skillet: If you're roasting your corn.
- Cutting Board: For chopping. Obviously.
- Chef's Knife: A good, sharp knife makes all the difference.
- Mixing Bowl: A regular bowl will do.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters here.
Missing a skillet? A large pan will work. Just don't use your best non-stick. You can enjoy this Grilled corn salsa with appetizer snacks.
Cooking Method
Right, let's talk about getting this Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat) just right! You know, the kind that makes you want to grab a bag of tortilla chips and just.
.. go for it? It's all about simplicity. Honestly, it’s so easy, even I can’t mess it up.
Prep Steps: The Key to Success
Mise en Place: Get Your Ducks in a Row
First things first: let's get organised. Dice that red onion. Mince the chipotle peppers. Chop the cilantro. Squeeze the lime juice.
Thaw your corn if you're using frozen. Basically, get everything ready before you start! This is your essential mise en place .
Time Saving Tip
Want a pro tip? I like to prep the red onion and chipotles ahead of time, usually the night before. This means less chopping when I'm actually making the salsa. Boom!
step-by-step: From Zero to Chipotle Corn Salsa Hero
How to Make Chipotle Corn Salsa: A Walkthrough
- Roast (Optional): If using fresh corn, cut from the cob. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Add 2 cups of corn and cook for about 5- 7 minutes until lightly charred. Let it cool. If using frozen corn, just thaw it or give it a quick roast for flavour.
- Combine: In a mixing bowl, throw in your corn, 1/4 cup red onion , 1-2 minced chipotle peppers , 1 tablespoon adobo sauce , 1/4 cup cilantro , 2 tablespoons lime juice , 1/2 teaspoon salt , and 1/4 teaspoon cumin . Don't forget that jalapeno if you're feeling brave!
- Mix: Gently stir everything together. Don't be too rough!
- Taste: This is crucial. Adjust the seasoning. More lime? More salt? A touch more chipotle? You're the boss!
- Chill (Optional): For the best flavour, cover the Corn Salsa and let it chill for at least 30 minutes . This allows the flavours to meld.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Summer Salsa Recipe
Char It Up!
Roasting the corn? Game changer! That little bit of char adds a smoky flavour that’s just chef’s kiss . It elevates this Grilled Corn Salsa so good
Chipotles Can Be Sneaky
Start with one chipotle pepper. Taste. Then, add more if you want that extra kick. Honestly, they pack a punch! This Spicy Corn Salsa gets pretty intense!
I tell you, this Mexican Corn Salad is a star with grilled chicken, too. And you can totally make it the day before! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It's great as Appetizer Snacks
So there you have it! Get this Chipotle copycat recipe perfected and you will never get store-bought again!
Recipe Notes for the Best Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat)
Alright, mateys! Before you dive headfirst into this Chipotle copycat recipe , let's chew the fat about some bits and bobs that will make your Corn Salsa experience even better.
Honestly, this is where the magic happens, and you can turn a good recipe into something bloody brilliant!
Serving Suggestions: Show it Off!
Think about how you want to present your masterpiece. A simple bowl is fine, but a colourful dish makes it look even more inviting.
How about piling it high on a bed of crispy tortilla chips for an awesome Appetizer Snacks ? Or maybe spoon it over some grilled chicken for a proper fiesta?
For drinks, I reckon a chilled beer, like a Corona, is perfect. A zingy margarita wouldn't go amiss either. Honestly, whatever tickles your fancy!
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
Right, you've made a big batch of this Chipotle Corn Salsa . If you've got any left (unlikely, I know!), get it into an airtight container and bung it in the fridge.
It'll keep for about 3-4 days.
Freezing isn't really recommended, as the texture can go a bit mushy when it thaws. But, if you're desperate, you can freeze it for up to a month.
Just be sure to let it thaw completely in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.
To reheat, just take it straight from the fridge and enjoy. There's no need to heat it up! It's absolutely banging cold.
Variations: Make it Your Own
Fancy a bit of a twist? Why not chuck in some black beans for extra protein? Hello, Mexican Corn Salad ! Or, if you're feeling fruity, a bit of diced mango will add a sweet tropical vibe.
Now you have an epic Summer Salsa Recipe !
Want to go Grilled corn salsa ? Grill that corn.
If you're veggie or vegan, you're already laughing this recipe is naturally plant based!
Nutrition Basics: Guilt Free Goodness
Each serving has about 80-100 calories. It is a fantastic side! Packed with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants from the corn, red onion, and cilantro.
It's a tasty way to get some goodness into your diet. Plus, it's relatively low in fat and sugar.
So there you have it. A Spicy corn salsa that is amazing! Don't be afraid to experiment. This Fresh Corn Salad is pretty forgiving.
Get in the kitchen and start creating. You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat) ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it's even better if you do. The flavours meld together beautifully as it sits in the fridge. Just prepare the salsa as directed, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Give it a good stir before serving.
How spicy is this Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat) recipe?
That depends on your heat tolerance! Chipotle peppers can pack a punch. We recommend starting with one minced chipotle pepper and adding more to taste. You can also adjust the amount of adobo sauce.
If you really like it hot, chuck in a minced jalapeño, too just remember to deseed it first if you're not a total chilli head!
What's the best way to store leftover Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat)?
To keep your leftover salsa fresh and flavourful, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 3-4 days. Give it a good sniff before diving in you'll know if it's past its prime. Best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge!
Can I grill the corn instead of roasting it in a pan?
Crikey, yes! Grilling the corn adds an extra layer of smoky flavour that's absolutely delicious. Simply grill the corn on the cob until lightly charred, let it cool slightly, and then cut the kernels off. This method is fantastic for BBQs and adds a real depth of flavour to the Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat).
I don't have chipotle peppers. What can I substitute in this Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat) recipe?
No worries, mate! If you can't get your hands on chipotle peppers, you can create a similar smoky spicy flavour using a combination of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. Start with about 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper, then adjust to taste.
It won't be exactly the same, but it'll definitely do the trick!
Is this Chipotle Corn Salsa (Copycat) healthy?
It sure is a good'un! This salsa is packed with the goodness of corn, red onion, and cilantro, all while being relatively low in calories. It's a great way to add some flavour and nutrients to your meals without piling on the guilt. Just be mindful of the sodium content and adjust the salt to your liking.
It's also vegan and gluten-free, which is a bonus!
Chipotle Corn Salsa The Ultimate Copycat Recipe

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 80-100 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |