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Fresh Cowboy Caviar

A fresh and colorful Cowboy Caviar recipe made with beans, corn, and crisp vegetables tossed in a tangy lime dressing. This easy cowboy caviar dip is quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect as a dip, salad, or side dish for any occasion.
Prep Time 14 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Place black beans and black-eyed peas in a colander. Rinse under cold running water until clean. Drain completely and set aside to remove excess moisture.
  • If using frozen corn, allow it to thaw fully and pat dry with a paper towel. If using canned corn, drain thoroughly before use.
  • Dice cherry tomatoes into small, even pieces. Cut bell pepper into small cubes. Finely chop red onion to ensure it blends well with the mixture.
  • Cut avocado into medium-sized chunks. Chop cilantro finely and set both aside for later use.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add the drained beans, black-eyed peas, corn, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, and chopped onion. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  • In a separate small bowl, add olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is fully combined and slightly emulsified.
  • Pour the prepared dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  • Add diced avocado and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Fold them in gently to avoid mashing the avocado while still distributing evenly.
  • Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and develop.
  • Before serving, stir gently and taste. Adjust seasoning if needed by adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Add avocado just before serving for best texture
  • Adjust dressing to taste for more tang or sweetness
  • Can be made a few hours ahead for better flavor