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The BEST Easy Cowboy Caviar Recipe (Texas Caviar)

Close-up of a white bowl filled with colorful cowboy caviar featuring black beans, corn, red peppers, and cilantro.

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Make this vibrant, fresh Cowboy Caviar, also known as Texas Caviar. It is a protein-packed, gluten-free dip loaded with beans, corn, and fresh vegetables, tossed in a zesty lime dressing. It is a perfect, quick party appetizer.

Ingredients

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  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained (or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed)
  • 1 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel, drained)
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Chop the red onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and tomatoes. Chop the cilantro.
  2. Combine the main ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the rinsed black beans, drained corn, chopped onion, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cilantro.
  3. Make the zesty lime dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and chili powder until well combined.
  4. Dress the caviar: Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This makes the best Cowboy Caviar when chilled.
  6. Serve as a dip with tortilla chips or as a healthy side dish.

Notes

  • This recipe tastes even better when made ahead of time. You can prepare this make ahead dip up to 24 hours in advance.
  • For a spicier kick, add one finely diced jalapeño to the vegetable mix.
  • If you do not have fresh lime juice, you can substitute with bottled lime juice, but fresh provides the best zesty flavor.
  • This is a naturally gluten free dip, making it safe for many guests.

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