Cowboy Caviar Recipe: The Fresh and Zesty Dip That Steals the Show
Cowboy Caviar, also known as Texas Caviar, is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dip, salad, or side dish that brings together bold Southwestern flavors in every bite. It’s a colorful medley of black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, peppers, onions, and tomatoes, tossed in a tangy lime vinaigrette. Originally created in Texas as a fun, fresh alternative to traditional salsa, Cowboy Caviar has earned its place at every cookout, picnic, and game day spread.
This versatile dish is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and packed with protein and fiber—making it as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s also incredibly easy to customize, so you can spice it up or down to your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the beans, black-eyed peas, corn, tomatoes, peppers, onion, avocado (if using), and cilantro.
- Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Enjoy with tortilla chips, or serve as a salad or topping for grilled meats.