Name: Cowboy Caviar Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: PT-489096H57M50S
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed; 1½ cups corn (canned, frozen, or fresh); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 Roma tomatoes, diced; ½ red onion, diced; 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional); ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Cowboy Caviar is a vibrant, fresh, and flavor-packed dip or salad that I love making when I need something quick, healthy, and crowd-pleasing. With a mix of beans, corn, veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s incredibly versatile and works just as well as a side dish, dip, or topping. Whether I’m hosting a summer barbecue or meal prepping for the week, this is one of my go-to recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fresh, colorful, and loaded with flavor. It comes together in minutes, requires no cooking, and only gets better as it sits. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan. The mix of textures—from the creamy beans to the crisp bell peppers and the tangy lime dressing—makes every bite satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Black beans
Black-eyed peas
Corn (frozen, canned, or fresh)
Red bell pepper
Green bell pepper
Roma tomatoes
Red onion
Jalapeño (optional)
Cilantro
Fresh lime juice
Olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Garlic powder
Salt
Pepper

Directions

I start by rinsing and draining the black beans, black-eyed peas, and corn, then placing them in a large mixing bowl.
I dice the red and green bell peppers, tomatoes, and red onion, then finely chop the jalapeño and cilantro.
I add all the chopped veggies to the bowl with the beans and corn.
In a small bowl or jar, I whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
I pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together until well combined.
I like to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

I sometimes add diced avocado right before serving for a creamy twist. If I want it spicier, I use more jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. For a fruitier take, I mix in some chopped mango or pineapple. It’s also easy to swap in different beans or add cooked quinoa for extra protein.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover cowboy caviar in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop over time, so it often tastes even better the next day. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the fresh veggies can lose their texture. No reheating needed—just stir and serve straight from the fridge. Cowboy Caviar Recipe

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I actually prefer making it a few hours or a day ahead. It gives the flavors time to blend and deepen.

What can I serve with cowboy caviar?

I usually serve it with tortilla chips, but it’s also great over grilled chicken, tacos, or as a salad on its own.

Is cowboy caviar healthy?

Absolutely. It’s full of fiber, protein, and fresh vegetables. I like that it’s nutrient-dense and satisfying without being heavy.

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, canned, frozen, or fresh corn all work. I just make sure to drain canned corn or thaw frozen corn before using.

How do I keep the avocado from browning if I add it?

If I’m adding avocado, I do it just before serving and toss it gently with a bit of lime juice to help prevent browning.

Conclusion

Cowboy Caviar is one of those recipes I turn to again and again because it’s simple, delicious, and endlessly adaptable. Whether I’m dipping chips into it, piling it onto tacos, or serving it as a side, it never fails to impress. It’s fresh, zesty, and full of good-for-you ingredients—everything I want in a no-fuss dish.