Cowboy Caviar (aka Texas Caviar)
This easy cowboy caviar (also known as Texas caviar) is a colorful, zesty mix of beans, corn, and fresh veggies tossed in bottled Italian dressing. It's the perfect make-ahead dip or side dish for potlucks, cookouts, or game day—and takes just 15 minutes to prep.
Ingredients
- 1 15 oz can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can black-eyed peas drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can corn drained (or 10 oz frozen, thawed)
- 4-5 roma tomatoes chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion chopped (or yellow onion or green onion)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 jalapeno seeded and chopped
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic or 1 clove minced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup bottled Italian dressing
- 4 tbsp lime juice or the juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients except for the salad dressing and lime juice in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the top and add the lime juice. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
- Taste and season more if needed.
- Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld (longer is even better).
Notes
Add avocado: Stir in diced avocado just before serving.
Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce.
Leftover ideas: Mix with quinoa or rice for a grain bowl, spoon over salad greens or baked potatoes, fold into an omelet, or top tacos and grilled meats.
Make ahead: Best after chilling at least 1 hour. Stays fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Optional Homemade Dressing for Cowboy Caviar
If you’d rather make your own dressing, here’s a quick and easy version for a simple homemade vinaigrette:
Whisk together and use in place of bottled dressing: 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!