Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Zesty Cowboy Caviar Dip is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Often called “Texas Caviar,” this dip is made with a mix of beans, corn, peppers, tomatoes, onions, and avocado tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. It’s fresh, zesty, and loaded with color, making it perfect for parties, barbecues, or as a healthy snack. Best of all, it requires no cooking—just chop, mix, and let the flavors meld. Serve it with tortilla chips as a dip, spoon it over grilled meats, or enjoy it as a salad. With its bold flavors and endless customizations, Cowboy Caviar is a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast every time.
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Zesty Cowboy Caviar Dip
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A vibrant and zesty dip made with black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, peppers, and avocado tossed in a tangy lime dressing. Perfect as a party appetizer with tortilla chips or as a fresh side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey (or sugar)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, bell peppers, jalapeño, onion, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, honey, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the bean and veggie mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats or tacos.
Notes
- Best served the same day for freshest avocado texture.
- Add diced mango or pineapple for a fruity twist.
- Can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but stir before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, Southwestern
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Black beans – Provide a hearty base with protein and texture.
Black-eyed peas – Add a Southern-inspired touch and extra creaminess.
Corn kernels – Sweet and crunchy, balancing the savory flavors.
Red bell pepper – Adds color and crisp freshness.
Green bell pepper – Provides a mild, earthy crunch.
Roma tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, perfect for this chunky dip.
Red onion – Sharp and tangy, giving balance to the dip.
Avocado – Creamy, rich, and perfectly complements the veggies.
Jalapeño – Adds a spicy kick for those who love heat.
Cilantro – Fresh and bright, classic in Tex-Mex flavors.
Olive oil – Forms the base of the zesty vinaigrette.
Lime juice – Adds tang and freshness while keeping avocado green longer.
Red wine vinegar – Boosts the tangy bite of the dressing.
Garlic powder – Adds savory depth without overpowering.
Cumin – Warm, earthy spice that ties the flavors together.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
Directions
Drain and rinse the black beans and black-eyed peas. Add them to a large mixing bowl along with corn, diced red and green bell peppers, chopped tomatoes, diced red onion, jalapeño, avocado cubes, and cilantro.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
Pour the dressing over the bean and veggie mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or tacos.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 servings. Preparation takes 20 minutes, plus 30 minutes of chilling time. Total time: 50 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the avocado from browning, add it just before serving. This dip is best enjoyed fresh and should not be frozen.
Variations and Customizations
Mango Cowboy Caviar – Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet tropical twist.
Spicy Kick – Swap jalapeño for serrano or add a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy Version – Top with crumbled queso fresco or cotija before serving.
Protein Boost – Add grilled shrimp or diced chicken for a heartier dish.
Tex-Mex Style – Stir in a packet of taco seasoning to the dressing for extra flavor.
No-Bean Option – Skip the beans and use more veggies for a lighter, crunchier dip.
Keto-Friendly – Reduce corn and beans slightly, and load up on peppers and avocado.
Herb Swap – Use parsley instead of cilantro if preferred.
FAQs
Why is it called Cowboy Caviar?
It’s a playful name for this colorful bean salad, first created in Texas as a Southern-inspired dish.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling, but add avocado just before serving.
Is this dip spicy?
It has a mild kick from jalapeño, but you can adjust the heat level.
Can I use canned corn?
Yes, canned or frozen corn works fine—just drain or thaw before using.
How long does Cowboy Caviar last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge, though it’s best within the first 24 hours.
What can I serve it with?
Tortilla chips, pita chips, or as a topping for tacos, nachos, or grilled meats.
Can I use other beans?
Yes, kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas make great substitutes.
How do I keep avocado from browning?
Mix it with lime juice before adding and store tightly covered.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely—it’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Conclusion
Zesty Cowboy Caviar Dip is a colorful, fresh, and versatile dish that works as a dip, salad, or topping. Packed with beans, veggies, and a tangy lime vinaigrette, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for parties or weeknight snacking, this dip is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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