Southwestern Cowboy Caviar

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8
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If you're looking for a vibrant, zesty dish that screams sunshine and good vibes, this Southwestern Cowboy Caviar is your answer. Packed with fresh veggies and a tangy lime dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients for Southwestern Cowboy Caviar

Black beans and black-eyed peas add a hearty texture and protein boost. They're a great base for soaking up the bright flavors of the dressing. Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness, balancing the savory notes of the beans and peas. Sweet corn kernels, either fresh or thawed, provide a nice pop of crunch and sweetness.

Avocado adds creaminess and richness, while red onion offers a sharp, tangy bite. Cilantro lends a fresh, herbal aspect that ties everything together. Jalapeño brings a mild heat, adjustable to your taste, and red bell pepper contributes a sweet, crunchy texture.

The dressing, made with lime juice, olive oil, and ground cumin, infuses a zesty and slightly smoky flavor, unifying all the ingredients into a cohesive dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a spicier kick, keep some of the jalapeño seeds or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • For extra freshness, add a squeeze of lime just before serving.
  • To prevent the avocado from browning, add it right before serving if you plan to make this dish ahead of time.

Serving Suggestions

This Cowboy Caviar is incredibly versatile. Scoop it up with tortilla chips for a perfect party dip. It also makes a fantastic topping for grilled chicken or fish tacos. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of greens for a light and nutritious salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.
Is there a way to make it less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply omit the jalapeño or use a milder pepper.

Southwestern Cowboy Caviar Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Open the cans of black beans and black-eyed peas, drain them well, and give them a good rinse under cold water. This removes any excess salt and starch.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your beans and peas with the cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, chopped red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Toss everything gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this vibrant dressing over your bean and veggie mixture. Use a spatula or large spoon to toss everything together, ensuring each ingredient is lightly coated with the dressing.

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle toss and you’re good to go.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute plans.
  • Loaded with colorful, nutritious ingredients that are as good for you as they taste.
  • Versatile enough to serve as a dip, salad, or even a taco topping.
  • Vegetarian, but hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
1 cup sweet corn kernels, fresh or thawed if frozen
1 avocado, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, black-eyed peas, cherry tomatoes, corn, avocado, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture, and toss gently to combine.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips or as a salad.

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