Name: The Best Cowboy Caviar Recipe (Texas Caviar)
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: PT-490171H14M57S
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 Roma tomatoes, diced and seeded; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional); 1 avocado, diced (optional, add just before serving); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tbsp lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cowboy Caviar is fresh, healthy, and bursting with flavor. It’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and fresh produce. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, game day, or as a refreshing snack, it’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan or gluten-free. The combination of beans, crisp veggies, and zesty dressing makes it addictively good—and it only gets better as it sits.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
Black beans, rinsed and drained
Corn (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
Red bell pepper, diced
Green bell pepper, diced
Roma tomatoes, diced and seeded
Red onion, finely chopped
Jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
Avocado, diced (optional, add just before serving)
Fresh cilantro, chopped

For the dressing:

Olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Lime juice
Garlic, minced
Sugar
Salt and pepper
Ground cumin

Directions

In a large bowl, combine black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, garlic, sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss to coat thoroughly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Just before serving, gently fold in diced avocado if using. Serve with tortilla chips or as a side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people as a dip or side dish.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Total time: 15–45 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Stir in diced grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a light meal.
Spicy version: Use more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing.
Fruit twist: Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and spicy combo.
Different beans: Substitute pinto beans or chickpeas for black beans or black-eyed peas.
No sugar: Leave out the sugar or replace it with honey or agave for a natural sweetener.

Storage/Reheating

Store Cowboy Caviar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Avocado should be added just before serving to prevent browning.
This dish does not require reheating and should not be frozen due to the fresh vegetables.

FAQs

What is Cowboy Caviar made of?

It’s typically made with black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, peppers, tomatoes, and onions tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

Can I make Cowboy Caviar ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours to let the flavors meld.

Is Cowboy Caviar served hot or cold?

It’s served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for warm weather or party spreads.

What do you eat Cowboy Caviar with?

It’s most commonly served with tortilla chips, but it’s also great as a side dish or topping for grilled meats or tacos.

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, canned, frozen (thawed), or fresh corn all work well in this recipe.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Add the avocado just before serving, or toss it with a bit of lime juice to help prevent oxidation.

Is Cowboy Caviar healthy?

Yes, it’s full of fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein. It’s naturally low in fat and high in nutrients.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s already vegan as long as no honey is used in the dressing.

Can I use bottled dressing?

For convenience, you can use a store-bought vinaigrette, but homemade dressing offers fresher flavor.

Why is it called Texas Caviar?

It was created in Texas and named humorously as a “caviar” alternative using black-eyed peas instead of fish roe.

Conclusion

This Cowboy Caviar recipe is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful dish that fits any occasion—from casual snacking to festive gatherings. With its mix of crunchy vegetables, hearty beans, and zesty dressing, it’s endlessly versatile and always a hit. Easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a must-make addition to your recipe collection.

The Best Cowboy Caviar Recipe (Texas Caviar)

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Cowboy Caviar, also known as Texas Caviar, is a vibrant and zesty bean salad or dip made with black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, fresh veggies, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a party dip, side dish, or topping for grilled meats.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15–45 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Southwestern
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, red and green bell peppers, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, garlic, sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss to coat thoroughly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Just before serving, gently fold in diced avocado if using. Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips or as a side dish.

Notes

Make ahead for better flavor—just add avocado right before serving.
Use canned, fresh, or frozen corn based on availability.
Skip the sugar or use honey/agave for a natural alternative.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a light entrée.
This dish is best served cold or at room temperature and should not be frozen.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 220
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg