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Bowl of colorful cowboy caviar with tortilla chips

Name: Cowboy Caviar

Summary: Cowboy Caviar is a fresh, colorful, and zesty salad or dip made with beans, vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette. It's perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a healthy snack. Quick to prepare and loaded with flavor, this Tex-Mex favorite is a crowd-pleaser that's naturally vegan and gluten-free.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • 1 can 15 oz black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • ½ red onion finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño pepper seeded and finely diced (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • For the dressing:
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lime juice fresh preferred
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Equipment:
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl or jar (for mixing dressing)
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula for mixing

Method
 

  1. Instructions:
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend.
  6. Stir gently before serving. Enjoy as a dip with tortilla chips or as a side salad!

Notes

Notes:
Make ahead tip: This dish gets better as it sits—perfect for prepping a day in advance.
For a twist, add diced avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.
Want a bit of sweetness? Add diced mango or pineapple for a tropical touch.
Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing jalapeño or adding hot sauce.