Drift Recipes Cowboy Caviar: A Colorful, Zesty Dip

Cowboy Caviar, also known as Texas Caviar, is a vibrant and versatile dish that’s perfect as a dip, side dish, or even a topping for tacos. Packed with fresh veggies, beans, and a tangy dressing, this recipe is as delicious as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a healthy snack, Cowboy Caviar is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Vegetables:

🌽 1 cup fresh or canned corn (drained if canned)
🥒 1 cup diced cucumber
🌶️ 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for spice)
🫑 1 red bell pepper, diced
🧅 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
🍅 1 cup diced cherry tomatoes
🥑 1 avocado, diced (add just before serving)

Legumes:

🫘 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
🫘 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained

Dressing:

🥄 1/4 cup olive oil
🍋 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
🍯 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
🌿 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
🧄 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables and Legumes:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, cucumber, jalapeño, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Add the black beans and black-eyed peas.
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Toss the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and beans. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve:
- Chill the Cowboy Caviar in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve with tortilla chips, as a side dish, or over grilled chicken or fish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 150
Fat: 6g
Carbs: 20g
Protein: 5g
Fiber: 6g

Tips for the Best Cowboy Caviar

Customize It: Add diced mango or pineapple for a touch of sweetness.
Make It Spicy: Include more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Prep Ahead: The flavors improve over time, so make it a few hours in advance. Just add avocado before serving to avoid browning.