Vibrant Cowboy Caviar Salad (Printable Version)

Vibrant bean and corn salad with peppers, tomatoes, and zesty lime dressing. Perfect for parties and gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Beans & Legumes

01 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
02 - 1 (15 oz) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
04 - 1 cup sweet corn kernels, fresh or frozen
05 - 1/2 red onion, finely diced
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
08 - 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
09 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Dressing

10 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
12 - 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
13 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
14 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
15 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
16 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine drained black beans, black-eyed peas, diced cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, red onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, jalapeño, and fresh cilantro.
02 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, red wine vinegar, ground cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper until well blended.
03 - Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
04 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to fully meld and develop.
05 - Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips, as a side salad, or as a topping for grilled meats.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It tastes better the longer it sits, which means you can make it the night before and actually enjoy your own party.
  • Every bite is crunchy, bright, and satisfying without feeling heavy or rich.
  • You can scoop it with chips, pile it on tacos, or eat it straight from the bowl with a spoon and no one will judge you.
02 -
  • Do not skip the resting time, an hour in the fridge transforms this from good to unforgettable.
  • If you add avocado, do it right before serving or it will turn brown and mushy.
  • Taste before you serve and add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lime if it needs brightening.
03 -
  • Use a jar with a lid to shake the dressing instead of whisking, it emulsifies faster and you have one less bowl to wash.
  • If the salad tastes flat after chilling, a tiny pinch of sugar or a splash more lime juice will bring it back to life.
  • Invest in a good can opener and rinse your beans well, no one wants that starchy liquid muddying the flavors.
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