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The Best Cowboy Caviar Dip

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  • Author: Stephanie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Dip
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Cowboy Caviar is a vibrant, fresh, and zesty dip made with beans, vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Perfect as a dip for tortilla chips or a topping for tacos, it’s a crowd-pleaser for parties, barbecues, or any gathering!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (canned, frozen, or fresh)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional, added just before serving)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or sugar for a vegan option)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro.
  2. Make the dressing:
    • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Combine the dip:
    • Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Chill:
    • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Add the avocado (optional):
    • Just before serving, fold in the diced avocado for added creaminess.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve cold or at room temperature with tortilla chips, pita chips, or as a topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or fish.



Notes

  • Make-ahead: This dip can be prepared up to 1 day in advance, but add the avocado just before serving to avoid browning.
  • Customizations: Add diced jalapeños for heat, or use fresh herbs like parsley or basil instead of cilantro.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.