Cowboy caviar, also known as Texas caviar, is a flavorful and colorful salsa-like dip that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or as a healthy snack.
Packed with beans, vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this dish is bursting with fresh flavors and textures.
Whether served with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled meats, or as a side dish, cowboy caviar is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Let’s dive into how to whip up this delicious and versatile cowboy caviar!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/3 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing spoon
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, black-eyed peas, corn kernels, diced bell peppers, chopped red onion, chopped jalapeño pepper, and chopped cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture in the large bowl, and toss until well combined.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the cowboy caviar for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the cowboy caviar a good stir, and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve the cowboy caviar chilled with tortilla chips for dipping, and enjoy!
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 4g
Health Benefits
Cowboy caviar is not only delicious but also offers a variety of health benefits.
This dish is rich in fiber, thanks to the beans and vegetables, which can help promote digestive health and keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Additionally, the colorful bell peppers provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
The jalapeño pepper adds a spicy kick and may provide metabolism-boosting properties due to its capsaicin content.
Plus, the olive oil in the dressing offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Enjoying cowboy caviar as part of a balanced diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.