Short Description
Texas Caviar, also known as Cowboy Caviar, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions in a zesty, tangy dressing. This easy-to-make, nutritious, and flavorful dip is perfect for parties, picnics, and potlucks. Whether enjoyed as a dip with tortilla chips or as a side salad, Texas Caviar is a crowd-pleaser that bursts with Southwestern flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Fresh Ingredients – A colorful medley of vegetables and legumes brings a fresh, crisp texture.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Loaded with fiber, protein, and vitamins, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Easy to Make – Requires minimal chopping and mixing, with no cooking involved.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – A versatile dish that works as an appetizer, side dish, or even a topping.
- Customizable to Your Taste – Easily adjustable to be spicier, milder, or adapted for different dietary preferences.
Ingredients
black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, honey, tortilla chips (for serving)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables – Dice the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, and jalapeño. Finely chop the cilantro.
- Drain and Rinse Beans – Rinse and drain the black-eyed peas, black beans, and corn to remove excess sodium and liquid.
- Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and honey.
- Combine Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the beans, corn, diced vegetables, and chopped cilantro.
- Add the Dressing – Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill Before Serving – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve chilled with tortilla chips or as a flavorful topping for tacos, grilled meats, or salads.
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Avocado Addition – Dice and add fresh avocado just before serving for a creamy texture.
- Protein Boost – Include grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a hearty meal.
- Different Beans – Swap black-eyed peas or black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas.
- Citrusy Twist – Use orange or lemon juice instead of lime for a different tangy flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the texture of fresh vegetables may change.
- Reheating: Best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. What is Texas Caviar?
Texas Caviar, also known as Cowboy Caviar, is a bean salad or dip made with black-eyed peas, beans, vegetables, and a tangy dressing.
2. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Texas Caviar tastes even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors blend.
3. What can I serve with Texas Caviar?
Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a side dish with grilled meats.
4. Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Add extra jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
5. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes! The base recipe is vegan-friendly, but check your ingredients for any non-vegan additions.
6. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, canned black-eyed peas and beans work perfectly. Just rinse and drain them well.
7. What kind of vinegar is best?
Red wine vinegar gives the best tangy flavor, but apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used.
8. How long does it last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly.
9. Can I freeze Texas Caviar?
Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables may become mushy after thawing.
10. Can I add cheese?
Yes, crumbled feta or cotija cheese makes a great topping for added flavor.
Conclusion
Texas Caviar (Cowboy Caviar) is a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any gathering. Its fresh ingredients and tangy dressing make it a refreshing appetizer or side. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, Southwestern flavors. Give it a try, and enjoy the perfect balance of textures and tastes!
Print
Texas Caviar Recipe (Cowboy Caviar)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Texas Caviar, or Cowboy Caviar, is a vibrant and zesty dip made with black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, and fresh vegetables in a tangy dressing. Perfect for parties, picnics, and potlucks!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- Tortilla chips (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables – Dice the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, grape tomatoes, and jalapeño. Finely chop the cilantro.
- Drain and Rinse Beans – Rinse and drain the black-eyed peas, black beans, and corn to remove excess sodium and liquid.
- Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and honey.
- Combine Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the beans, corn, diced vegetables, and chopped cilantro.
- Add the Dressing – Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill Before Serving – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve chilled with tortilla chips or as a flavorful topping for tacos, grilled meats, or salads.
Notes
- Spicy Kick – Add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Avocado Addition – Dice and add fresh avocado just before serving for a creamy texture.
- Protein Boost – Include grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a hearty meal.
- Different Beans – Swap black-eyed peas or black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas.
- Citrusy Twist – Use orange or lemon juice instead of lime for a different tangy flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish, Dip
- Method: no cook, mixing
- Cuisine: Southwestern, Tex-Mex
Keywords: ,Texas Caviar, Cowboy Caviar, bean salad, Southwestern dip, party appetizer, Tex-Mex recipe
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