Easy Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe (BUT BETTER!)

This salsa is truly the BFF to all summer meals, making the perfect topping to grilled meats or a delicious side dish or appetizer! Full of flavor—lime, cilantro, cumin—combined with the sweetness of the corn and the buttery deliciousness of avocado, plus a splash of red wine vinegar that completes the flavor palette. It all comes together to make your taste buds sing!

This salsa mimics Chipotle’s corn salsa, but BETTER. The spices added give the salsa much flavor, and the addition of avocado is everything! It’s such an easy recipe, can easily be doubled for a big batch, and makes the perfect appetizer everyone will love!

Easy Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe With Avocado

What You Will Love About This Recipe:

Quick and Easy: Comes together in no time!
Versatile: Elevates any meal you pair it with.
Stand-Alone Appetizer: Can be enjoyed on its own with tortilla chips.
Simple Ingredients: Made with basic, wholesome ingredients.
Nutritious: Composed of whole foods that are both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients:

Canned Yellow Corn: Drained and ready to go. (avoid frozen corn)
Poblano Pepper: Adds a mild heat and rich flavor.
Jalapeno Pepper: For that extra kick.
Red Onion: Provides a sharp, tangy taste.
Avocado: Buttery and smooth, a perfect addition.
Garlic Clove: Crushed for a burst of flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh and aromatic.
Fresh Lime Juice: About 2 tablespoons for a zesty tang.
Fresh Lemon Juice: About 1 tablespoon for a citrusy balance.
Red Wine Vinegar: Adds a unique acidity.
Avocado Oil: For a healthy, smooth blend.
Cumin: For a warm, earthy flavor.
Chili Powder: Adds a bit of heat and depth.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Simple Steps to Make This Salsa:

Prep the Avocado: Cut the avocado into chunks.
Dice the Veggies: Dice the peppers and onion into small pieces. For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the poblano and jalapeño peppers before dicing.
Chop the Cilantro: Finely chop the fresh cilantro.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the canned corn, diced peppers, onion, crushed garlic, chopped cilantro, lime juice, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, avocado oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Add the Avocado: Gently stir in the avocado chunks, being careful not to mash them.
Serve: Serve with your favorite tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite summertime grilled meat!

Serve With Suggestions:

Pulled Pork Nachos with White Queso: A savory, cheesy delight.
Grilled Chicken: Light and flavorful.
Smoked Salmon: Adds a luxurious, smoky twist.
Seared and Smoked Ribeye Steak: Rich and hearty.
Burritos or Your Favorite Tacos: Classic pairings that never disappoint.
Burrito Bowls: A complete meal in a bowl, topped with this vibrant salsa.
Corn Chips: As the perfect appetizer!

Storage:

This easy corn salsa is best consumed the day it’s made due to the avocado. However, it can be stored in an airtight container, or cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together, but the avocado may lose some of its vibrancy.

Elevating Your Salsa Game

This copycat Chipotle corn salsa is incredibly easy to make but offers so much more than its simplicity might suggest. The combination of sweet corn, creamy avocado, and a burst of citrus with the smoky warmth of cumin and chili powder creates a dance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

Tips for the Best Salsa:

Roast the Peppers: If you have the time, roasting the poblano and jalapeño peppers adds a smoky depth to the salsa (give me all the spicy peppers). Simply place them under the broiler until the skins blister, then peel, seed, and dice them. You can also roast them over the open flame of your stove!
Fresh is Best: While canned corn works wonderfully for convenience, fresh corn cut off the cob and quickly charred on a grill or in a skillet can add an incredible fresh flavor. Take advantage of corn season!
Balance the Acid: The combination of lime juice, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar provides a well-rounded acidity. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference.
Gentle with the Avocado: Add the avocado at the end and stir gently to keep the pieces intact and avoid turning them into mush.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and chili powder to suit your heat preference. You can always start with less and add more if needed.

Making It Your Own:

Feel free to get creative with this salsa! Add in some diced tomatoes for an extra burst of color and flavor, or mix in some black beans for added protein and texture. A sprinkle of feta or cotija cheese on top can also add a delightful salty finish.

Perfect for Any Occasion:

Whether you’re having a casual family dinner, a summer BBQ, or a festive gathering, this salsa is a perfect addition to your spread. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by ensuring all your ingredients meet those dietary needs.

Enjoying Your Salsa:

Aside from the suggested pairings, consider using this salsa to top a bed of greens for a refreshing salad or mixing it into a quinoa bowl for a hearty, nutritious meal. It’s also fantastic spooned over a baked potato or mixed into a grain salad for a burst of flavor.

Conclusion:

This copycat Chipotle corn salsa, with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, is bound to become a staple in your summer recipe repertoire. It’s quick, versatile, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make every bite a celebration of fresh flavors. So grab your ingredients, get chopping, and prepare to enjoy the best salsa you’ve ever made!

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious, flavorful bite! It’s the best corn salsa EVER!

Prep this salsa for taco night and check out the recipe card below for exact measurements!