Ah yes! Texas Caviar, also called Cowboy Caviar, is a fresh, zesty bean and veggie salad that’s perfect as a dip or side dish. It’s colorful, healthy, and super easy to make. Here’s a full recipe:
Texas Caviar / Cowboy Caviar
Ingredients (serves 6–8)
Salad:
- 1 (15 oz) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh)
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (balances acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the veggies and beans
- In a large bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, bell peppers, onion, jalapeños, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
Step 2: Make the dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 3: Combine
- Pour the dressing over the bean and veggie mixture.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Chill
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) so the flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve as a dip with tortilla chips, a side salad, or as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add diced avocado just before serving.
- Use rotel tomatoes (with green chilies) for a spicier version.
- You can also add cooked quinoa to make it more filling.
Texas Caviar is fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet, with a satisfying crunch from the peppers and corn. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or game day!
If you want, I can also give a “kick it up a notch” spicy version with roasted peppers and chipotle flavor—it tastes amazing with chips.
Do you want me to share that?
