What is Cowboy Caviar?

Cowboy Caviar, also known as Texas Caviar, is a vibrant, fresh, and zesty dip or salad primarily made from black beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, all tossed in a tangy lime-based vinaigrette. It's often served with tortilla chips.

Can I make Cowboy Caviar ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cowboy Caviar is actually best when made ahead of time. Chilling it for at least 2-4 hours allows the flavors to meld and deepen. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance for optimal taste. If adding avocado, wait until just before serving.

How long does Cowboy Caviar last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Cowboy Caviar typically lasts for 3-5 days. The vegetables will remain crisp and the flavors will stay fresh. If avocado is added, consume within 1-2 days as it tends to brown quickly.

What do you serve with Cowboy Caviar?

Cowboy Caviar is incredibly versatile! It's most commonly served as a dip with sturdy tortilla chips or pita bread. It also makes a fantastic topping for tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or fish. You can even enjoy it as a light, refreshing salad on its own or in lettuce wraps.

Cowboy Caviar: 15-Minute Fiesta Dip That Will Wow Your Guests!

Ingredients

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn, drained (or 1.5 cups fresh/frozen thawed corn)
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1 yellow bell pepper, finely diced
1/2 red onion, finely diced (soaked in cold water for 10 min if preferred)
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 teaspoon sugar or maple syrup (optional, to balance acidity)

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Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans and corn.
Step 2: Add the finely diced red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, quartered tomatoes, minced jalapeño (if using), and chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl. Gently stir to combine.
Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and optional sugar or maple syrup until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and develop. For best results, chill for 2-4 hours.
Step 6: Before serving, give the Cowboy Caviar another stir and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or as a vibrant side dish.

Notes

For best flavor, make the Cowboy Caviar a few hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and white membrane from the jalapeño, or omit it entirely. For an extra pop of color and flavor, add diced avocado just before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Side Dish, Dip
Cuisine: American, Southwestern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 180 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg