Charred Corn & Pineapple Salsa with Honey-Lime Drizzle

Elevate your dishes with corn and pineapple salsa. This refreshing recipe is perfect for grilled meats and dips.

Looking for a salsa that’s sweet, tangy, and bursting with flavor? Corn and pineapple salsa is the perfect blend of fresh ingredients that add a tropical twist to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, tacos, or as a dip with tortilla chips, this easy-to-make salsa is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Why We Love Corn and Pineapple Salsa

We love corn and pineapple salsa because it’s a perfect combination of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it a refreshing and versatile dish. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

1. The Perfect Sweet and Savory Balance

• The natural sweetness of pineapple and corn pairs beautifully with the slight heat from jalapeños and the tang of lime juice.
• This balance makes the salsa exciting and flavorful without being overpowering.

2. Refreshing and Light

• It’s a fresh alternative to traditional tomato-based salsas.
• The crisp textures of bell pepper, onion, and corn add so much flavor and a refreshing crunch.

3. Versatile Pairing

• This salsa goes well with so many dishes! You can enjoy it with:
  • Grilled meats (chicken, steak, pork)
  • Tacos or burrito bowls (especially fish and shrimp tacos)
  • Burgers and sandwiches
  • As a dip with tortilla chips
• It adds a tropical twist to everyday meals.

4. Easy to Make

• No cooking required (unless you’re grilling the corn for extra flavor).
• Can be prepared in 10 minutes or less.

5. Healthy and Nutritious

• Made with fresh, whole ingredients.
• Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and corn provides fiber and antioxidants.
• A great way to eat more fruits and veggies in a fun, flavorful way!

6. Bright and Colorful

• The vibrant yellow of corn and pineapple, the red of bell peppers, the green of cilantro—it looks as good as it tastes!
• Perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, and gatherings.

Corn and pineapple salsa is fun, delicious, and brings a taste of the tropics to any meal—what’s not to love?

Key Ingredients for this Pineapple Corn Salsa

Pineapple

Pineapple adds natural sweetness and a tropical tang that balances the spice and acidity in the salsa. Fresh pineapple is preferred, but canned works too.

Corn

Provides a slightly sweet and starchy texture. You can use fresh, canned, or grilled corn. Grilled corn adds a smoky depth to the salsa.

Red Bell Pepper

Red Bell pepper brings crunch, sweetness, and a pop of color to this fresh salsa.

Red onion

Adds a mild pungency and slight sweetness that enhances the overall flavor. Red onion is preferred for its sharpness and color.

Jalapeno

Jalapeño gives the salsa a spicy kick. You can substitute with serrano for more heat or use milder peppers if you prefer. Remove the seeds for less heat.

Cilantro

Fresh cilantro adds a refreshing herbal note and complements the tropical flavors. If you don’t like cilantro, you can use parsley or green onion.

Lime Juice and Zest

Lime juice provides acidity to brighten up the salsa and balance the sweetness of the pineapple and corn. It also helps preserve freshness.

Additional Ingredients

Salt

Black pepper

Honey (optional for extra sweetness)

Step by Step Instructions to Make Corn and Pineapple Salsa

1. Prepare the ingredients – If using fresh corn, grill or boil it and cut off the kernels. If using canned corn, drain and rinse it. Dice the pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño.

1. Mix everything together – In a large bowl, combine the pineapple, corn, bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
2. Add seasoning – Squeeze the lime juice over the salsa, then season with salt and pepper. If you prefer a slightly sweeter salsa, stir in honey.

1. Chill and serve – For the best flavor, let the salsa sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

FAQ and Expert Tips

• Use grilled corn for a smoky flavor.
• Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
• Swap jalapeño for serrano peppers if you like extra heat.
• Pair with fish tacos, grilled chicken, or as a topping for burgers.
• Got leftover salsa? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

This vibrant salsa is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The sweetness of pineapple perfectly complements the slight char of corn, while lime juice and jalapeño add a zesty kick. Try it out and enjoy a refreshing twist on classic salsa!

Additional Recipes to Try

Mexican Pasta Salad – Colorful bowtie pasta, black beans, and a creamy avocado vinaigrette make it a perfect BBQ side dish.

The Best Smoked Queso Dip – make this viral smoked queso dip in under 30 minutes! No charcoal grill or wood pellets necessary! It’s easy, delicious, and a total crowd pleaser!

Poblano and Black Bean Quesadillas – so simple and packed with flavor. These quesadillas come together quickly and disappear just as fast!

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