Cowboy Caviar, also known as Texas Caviar, is a vibrant and fresh dip made with a variety of beans, vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a healthy snack served with tortilla chips. Here’s how to whip up this delicious and colorful dish:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by prepping all your vegetables. Dice the bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño pepper. Chop the cilantro finely. Make sure to handle the jalapeño with gloves if you’re sensitive to spicy foods.
- Combine the Vegetables and Beans:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed black beans, black-eyed peas, and corn. Add the diced bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño. Toss in the chopped cilantro.
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, ground cumin, and chili powder. This will create your tangy dressing. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Chill:
- Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. The flavors blend better when they sit, so if time allows, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cowboy Caviar chilled or at room temperature with a side of tortilla chips for dipping. It can also be served as a side salad or over grilled meats.
Tips:
- Customize Your Caviar: Cowboy Caviar is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add diced tomatoes, avocado, or even diced mango for a sweet twist.
- Make It a Meal: For a heartier option, add cooked quinoa or farro to turn it into a robust salad.
- Storage: Cowboy Caviar can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option for quick lunches or snacks.
Conclusion:
Cowboy Caviar is a refreshing and hearty dish that combines simple ingredients with a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special events, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this easy-to-make, nutritious, and delicious recipe anytime you need a quick and satisfying snack or side dish!