Go Back
Two tacos filled with grilled meat and a corn salad garnish, served in a metal taco holder on a wooden surface.

Charred Corn Salsa

This Charred Corn Salsa is one of my favorite ways to bring big flavor to simple ingredients. The corn gets smoky and sweet on the grill, then mixes with creamy dressing, bright lime, and a little heat from Tajín. It’s the kind of side that always disappears first.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ears corn
  • 2 tbsp cilantro finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp Cotija cheese crumbled
  • 2 tbsp onion finely chopped
  • ½ jalapeño chopped
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp sour cream
  • 2 tsp Tajín
  • ½ lime freshly juiced, or to taste

Method
 

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the corn for 5–10 minutes, until tender. Remove from the water, pat dry, and place on a hot cast iron skillet or grill. Char on all sides until lightly blackened.
  2. Allow the corn to cool, then cut the kernels off the cob.
  3. Transfer the corn kernels to a bowl. Add the cilantro, Cotija cheese, onion, jalapeño, mayonnaise, sour cream, Tajín, and lime juice.
  4. Mix until well combined.
  5. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn for the best flavor and texture. The natural sweetness stands out once it’s charred.
  • Rotate the corn often while charring to get even color without burning.
  • Let the corn cool before cutting to keep the kernels juicy and intact.
  • Adjust the lime juice slowly. Start with half a lime, then add more to taste for extra brightness.
  • Mix gently so the kernels stay whole and the cheese doesn’t clump.
  • Taste before serving and add a pinch of salt or extra Tajín if needed.
  • Chill the salsa for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend together.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
  • Add diced avocado or tomato for more color and texture.
  • Serve it warm or cold – it’s delicious both ways and pairs well with grilled meats or tortilla chips.
 
If you enjoyed this recipe, please come back and give it a rating. I ❤️ hearing from you!