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Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Cowboy caviar is a fresh, colorful mix of beans, vegetables, and a zesty dressing. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect as a dip or side dish.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked black-eyed peas drained and rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups corn kernels
  • 2 Roma tomatoes diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion diced
  • 1 jalapeño finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 large avocados diced
  • Tortilla chips for serving
For the dressing
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic grated
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Whisk
  • Spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and most of the chopped cilantro, stirring gently to mix everything evenly.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, salt, sugar, grated garlic, cumin, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until the dressing is well combined.
  3. Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture, then stir thoroughly so all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture to allow the flavors to develop and blend together.
  5. Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado, being careful not to mash it.
  6. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed to balance the flavors.
  7. Garnish with the remaining cilantro and serve with tortilla chips.

Notes

  • Chill before serving. This helps the flavors blend and taste better.
  • Add avocado just before serving. This keeps it fresh and prevents browning.
  • Dice ingredients evenly. This gives a balanced bite in every scoop.
  • Adjust spice to taste. Add more or less jalapeño and cayenne as needed.
  • Use fresh lime juice. This adds brightness and enhances overall flavor.