Cowboy caviar, also known as Texas caviar, is a delightful mix of black beans, corn, and colorful veggies tossed in a zesty dressing. This versatile dish works as a dip, a salad, or even a taco topping. Packed with flavor, texture, and nutrients, it’s an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp honey (or sugar for a vegan option)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl or jar with lid for dressing
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon or spatula
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables:
Chop the tomatoes, avocado, onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño (if using). Add them to a large mixing bowl along with the black beans, corn, and fresh cilantro. - Make the dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, honey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined. - Combine and toss:
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. - Chill and serve:
Let the cowboy caviar sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with tortilla chips, as a side salad, or as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.
Tips
- Customize it: Add diced mango or pineapple for a touch of sweetness, or swap black beans for pinto or kidney beans.
- Keep it fresh: If making ahead, add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- Spice it up: Increase the heat with extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing.
Cowboy caviar is a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you serve it as a dip, salad, or topping, it’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Easy, healthy, and full of flavor, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion!
Cowboy Caviar Recipe
Cowboy caviar is a fresh and flavorful dip made with black beans, corn, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a healthy snack with chips!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl or jar with lid for dressing
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz corn, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes diced
- 1 avocado diced
- 1/2 red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 jalapeño seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp honey or sugar for a vegan option
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Chop the tomatoes, avocado, onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño (if using). Add them to a large mixing bowl along with the black beans, corn, and fresh cilantro.
- Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, honey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine and toss:
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Chill and serve:
- Let the cowboy caviar sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with tortilla chips, as a side salad, or as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.
Leave a Reply