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Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Cowboy Caviar Recipe

5 from 23 reviews

Cowboy Caviar is a vibrant and refreshing Tex-Mex salad loaded with fresh vegetables, beans, and avocado, tossed in a zesty lime and Italian dressing. Perfect as a healthy snack or a colorful side dish, this no-cook recipe is easy to prepare and bursting with bold flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 6 Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), seeded and diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely diced
  • 1 large avocado, peeled, pitted and diced

Canned Goods

  • 15 oz can corn, drained (or 1 cooked cob of corn)
  • 15 oz can black beans, well rinsed and drained (or homemade)

Herbs & Dressing

  • 1/2 bunch cilantro (about 1/2 cup chopped)
  • 34 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/2 cup light Italian dressing
  • 4 medium garlic cloves, pressed
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt or to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced Roma tomatoes, finely diced onion, diced bell pepper, seeded and finely diced jalapeño peppers, diced avocado, drained corn, rinsed black beans, and chopped cilantro.
  2. Add Dressing: Stir in 3 to 4 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1/2 cup of light Italian dressing, the pressed garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Mix and Serve: Toss all the ingredients together gently to combine well. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, retain some jalapeño seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Use fresh corn when in season for added sweetness and texture.
  • This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated; just add avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
  • Substitute Italian dressing with a homemade vinaigrette for a fresher taste.
  • Great as a dip, side salad, or taco topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy caviar, black bean salad, Tex-Mex salad, avocado salad, healthy dip, no-cook recipe, vegetarian, party appetizer