Smoky Grilled Corn & Nectarine Salsa

There’s something truly magical about the combination of smoky, charred corn and the sweet, juicy burst of nectarines. This Smoky Grilled Corn & Nectarine Salsa is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. It’s ideal as a topping for grilled meats, a dip for tortilla chips, or even a fresh side salad. Made with simple ingredients like fresh corn, ripe nectarines, and a touch of jalapeno, this salsa is a celebration of summer’s best flavors — easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Smoky Grilled Corn & Nectarine Salsa is a must-try because it brings together unexpected ingredients in a way that is both refreshing and satisfying. The grilling process adds a smoky depth to the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness, while the nectarines provide a juicy pop that complements the heat from the jalapeno and the sharpness of red onion. What’s more, it’s incredibly versatile — you can serve it as a topping on tacos, alongside grilled chicken, or even dolloped over a bed of greens.

If you love the idea of combining fruit and savory elements, this salsa in particular reminds me of the delightful Nectarine Blue Cheese Crostini Drizzles, which also play on the sweet and savory contrast beautifully. Plus, this recipe is quick to whip up, making it a perfect last-minute addition to your summer cookout or weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 2 ripe nectarines, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How To Make Smoky Grilled Corn & Nectarine Salsa

Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Corn

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, brush the husked ears of corn lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and to help with the charring process. Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes until all sides are nicely charred and smoky. The corn should be tender but still have a bit of crunch.

Step 2: Cut the Corn Off the Cob

Once grilled, allow the corn to cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the kernels off the cob. Be sure to hold the cob upright in a large bowl to catch all the kernels as they fall. The smoky charred bits will add incredible flavor to the salsa.

Step 3: Combine the Salsa Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, add the diced nectarines, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeno, and chopped fresh cilantro. Toss in the grilled corn kernels. Drizzle the lime juice and remaining olive oil over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Mix and Adjust

Gently toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — a little more lime juice or a pinch of salt can brighten the flavors even more. Let the salsa sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Expert Tips

• Choosing Nectarines: Opt for ripe but firm nectarines to ensure they hold their shape and don’t turn mushy in the salsa.
• Handling Jalapeno Heat: If you prefer a milder salsa, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeno. For extra heat, keep some seeds or add a pinch of cayenne.
• Grill Pan Alternative: If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan on your stovetop or even roast the corn under the broiler for a few minutes until charred.
• Make Ahead: This salsa can be made a few hours in advance to let the flavors develop, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the nectarines’ texture.
• Pairing Ideas: This salsa pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken or fish, or as a topping for tacos. For a full meal, try it alongside a Fresh Peach Salsa Chicken Sheet Pan dinner for a fruity, smoky feast.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap Nectarines for Peaches: If nectarines aren’t in season, ripe peaches or even mangoes can be great substitutes, adding a different but equally sweet flavor.
• Add Black Beans: For more protein and texture, toss in some rinsed black beans to turn this salsa into a heartier dish.
• Include Avocado: For creaminess, add diced avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
• Herb Variations: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to deepen the smoky flavor even more.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftover Smoky Grilled Corn & Nectarine Salsa, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. Because the nectarines and corn release moisture over time, the salsa might become a bit watery. Give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing this salsa, as the texture of the fruit and corn will degrade upon thawing.

FAQ

Can I make this salsa without grilling the corn?

Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can roast the corn in the oven on a baking sheet at 450°F (230°C) for about 10 minutes or until charred, or use a grill pan on the stovetop for similar smoky results.

Is this salsa spicy?

The heat level depends on how much jalapeno you include and whether you leave in the seeds. For a milder salsa, remove all seeds and membranes. You can also adjust the spice by adding more or less jalapeno to suit your taste.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Fresh corn is best for this recipe because it roasts and chars well, adding smoky flavor and maintaining a crunchy texture. Frozen corn can be used but won’t have the same smoky char and may become soggy.

What can I serve with this salsa?

This salsa is incredibly versatile. Serve it with grilled chicken, fish, or steak, use it as a topping for tacos or burritos, spoon it over salads, or enjoy with tortilla chips as a fresh dip.

Conclusion

This Smoky Grilled Corn & Nectarine Salsa is a fantastic way to celebrate fresh, seasonal produce with a burst of smoky flavor and sweet juiciness. The simple ingredients come together quickly to create a salsa that’s colorful, flavorful, and perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight boost. Whether you’re looking to elevate your grilled meals or simply want a refreshing side dish, this salsa delivers on all fronts. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

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