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Bowl of Texas Caviar with black-eyed peas and fresh vegetables

Texas Caviar

A vibrant and healthy black-eyed peas salsa that's perfect for dipping or as a topping, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights and gatherings.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cans 15 oz black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked)
  • 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed Swap for kidney beans if desired.
  • 1.5 cups frozen corn (thawed) or canned corn (drained)
  • 1 whole red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 whole green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 whole Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced (or 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved)
  • 1 whole jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional) Keep seeds for extra heat.
  • 0.5 cups fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 whole ripe avocado, diced (optional) Add just before serving to avoid browning.
Dressing Ingredients
  • 0.25 cups extra-virgin olive oil
  • 0.25 cups red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tbsp juice of lime About 1 lime.
  • 1 tsp sugar or honey Balances the acidity.
  • 0.5 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika.
  • 1 tsp kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Finely dice the bell peppers, chop the onion, halve the tomatoes, and mince the jalapeño.
  2. In a large bowl, stir together the black-eyed peas, black beans, and corn.
  3. Toss in the diced peppers, onion, tomatoes, and cilantro.
Dressing Preparation
  1. In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, vinegar, lime juice, sugar (or honey), cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until emulsified.
Combine and Serve
  1. Pour the dressing over the bean and veggie mixture and stir gently to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
  3. If using avocado, fold it in just before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, prepare the dish a day in advance and add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.