Cowboy Caviar

Published on August 29, 2022 This Cowboy Caviar recipe is made with black eyed peas, black beans, corn, avocado, and veggies that are tossed in a simple, tangy vinaigrette. Serve with tortilla chips; it’s always a crowd pleaser at parties and potlucks. It is similar to my black bean salad, but is made with black-eyed peas and has a vinaigrette-style dressing that gives the caviar a nice tangy flavor. Serve with salty tortilla chips and you won’t be able to leave the bowl. It is so tasty! It can be served as an appetizer or side dish with any meal, and sometimes we will eat the hearty dip for lunch. It really is good anytime of the day. The next time you need to make a dish to share, make Cowboy Caviar. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, cookouts, game day, or even a picnic in the park. Everyone loves this classic dip!

Key Ingredients

Black beans & Black Eyed Peas– I use canned black beans and black eyed peas to keep the recipe super simple. Make sure you rinse and drain them. If you prefer using dried beans and peas, you can soak and cook them.Tomatoes– I use Roma tomatoes, but you can use your favorite tomatoes, just remove the seeds.Bell peppers– I use red and yellow, but orange and green will work too. Corn– I love using fresh sweet corn kernels. You can cut them right off of the cob, you don’t need to cook them. If you don’t have fresh corn, you can use frozen.Red onion– I love the flavor and pop of color red onion adds. Jalapeño pepper– remove the seeds and diced into very small pieces.Cilantro– so fresh!Avocado– the avocado takes the dip to a new level. So creamy and delicious! Lime juice– to brighten up the dip.

Dressing Ingredients

The dressing is simple, you can whisk it up in less than 5 minutes…and I bet you have all of the ingredients already.

Olive oil or avocado oilRed wine vinegarGarlicHoney (can use maple syrup or sugar to make the recipe vegan)Kosher salt and black pepper

How to Make Cowboy Caviar

In a large bowl, combine the beans, black eyed peas, tomatoes, peppers, corn, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Gently fold in the avocado and add the fresh lime juice.In a small bowl, whisk together oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.Pour the dressing over cowboy caviar and stir until well combined.Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes so the flavors can marinate. If you making the caviar in advance, wait to add the avocado to prevent browning. Stir it in right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

In my opinion, you HAVE to serve cowboy caviar with tortilla chips. It is such a great dip!You can also use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.Use it as a topping for grilled chicken, steak, fish, or pork. Serve it with rice or quinoa. Spoon it over a bed of greens and make a salad.

How to Store

How to Store: place the caviar in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up 4 days. If you’ve already added the avocado, it is best within 2 days.Make ahead: You can make the dressing up to 5 days in advance. Store it in a jar or airtight container in the fridge. Whisk well before adding it to the caviar.