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This vibrant peach green chile corn salsa brings together the sweet juiciness of summer peaches with the gentle kick of green chiles. The combination creates a refreshing appetizer that balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes perfectly for any summer gathering.
The first time I made this salsa for a backyard BBQ, guests literally gathered around the bowl and wouldn't leave until it was gone. Now I always make a double batch because it disappears so quickly.
Ingredients
- Fresh peaches: Bring natural sweetness and juicy texture that forms the foundation of this salsa
- Green chiles: Add the perfect amount of heat without overwhelming the other flavors
- Grilled corn kernels: Contribute a smoky sweetness and pleasant texture contrast
- Red onion: Provides a sharp bite that balances the sweetness of the peaches and corn
- Fresh cilantro: Brings that distinctive herbal note that makes any salsa shine
- Lime juice: Adds essential acidity to brighten all the flavors and balance the sweetness
- Chili powder: Enhances the depth of flavor with its warm earthy notes
- Salt: Crucial to bring all the flavors together and make them pop on your palate
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the fruit:
- Dice the peaches into small, uniform cubes about 1/4 inch in size. You can peel them first if you prefer a smoother texture, but I find the skin adds nice color and texture to the final salsa.
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Dice the green chiles finely, ensuring you remove any large seeds if using fresh chiles. Cut the grilled corn kernels from the cob, making sure to get those charred bits that add smoky flavor. Finely dice the red onion and chop the cilantro, making sure the pieces are small enough to distribute throughout the salsa.
- Combine and season:
- Place all prepared ingredients in a medium bowl. Squeeze the juice from half a lime directly over the mixture. Sprinkle with chili powder and salt to taste. Gently toss everything together until well combined, being careful not to mash the peaches.
I always keep the peach skin on because it adds beautiful color contrast and extra nutrition. My family recipe originally called for canned peaches, but once I tried it with fresh summer peaches from our local farmers market, there was no going back to canned.
Make-Ahead Tips
This salsa can be prepared up to 8 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve as they meld together, but if you go longer than 8 hours, the peaches may start to break down too much. If making ahead, I recommend adding the cilantro just before serving to maintain its fresh, bright flavor.
Spice Adjustments
The heat level in this salsa is quite mild as written, making it family friendly. For those who enjoy more heat, try adding a finely diced jalapeño with seeds intact or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Conversely, if serving to those with sensitive palates, you can reduce the amount of green chiles or substitute with the milder poblano peppers instead.
Serving Suggestions
While tortilla chips are the classic pairing, this salsa truly shines when served alongside grilled fish or chicken. The sweet and spicy notes complement proteins beautifully. Try spooning it over fish tacos or grilled salmon for an elevated meal. I also love serving it as part of a bruschetta bar with toasted baguette slices and various toppings for guests to create their own combinations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh ones?
Fresh peaches are recommended for the best flavor, but canned peaches can work in a pinch. Drain them well before use.
- → What type of corn is best for this dish?
Grilled corn adds a smoky depth. If unavailable, frozen or canned sweet corn can be used, but drain them thoroughly.
- → Can I adjust the heat level?
Yes, you can modify the spice by using milder or hotter green chiles and adjusting the chili powder to your taste.
- → How long can I store this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- → What can I serve with it?
This dish pairs well with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, fish tacos, or spooned over salads for added flavor.