Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cowboy Caviar is not only colorful and tasty, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s a quick and easy no-cook recipe, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute parties. The combination of ripe tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, spicy jalapeños, creamy avocado, and sweet corn creates a balanced texture and flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips, as a topping for grilled meats, or as a side dish, it’s a dish that can do it all. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can be customized with more spice if you like it hotter!
Ingredients
- 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
- 15 oz can of corn, drained (or from 1 cooked cob)
- 15 oz can of black beans, well rinsed and drained
- 1/2 bunch of cilantro, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 3–4 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 cup light Italian dressing
- 4 medium garlic cloves, pressed
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, jalapeños, avocado, corn, black beans, and cilantro.
- Add the lime juice, Italian dressing, pressed garlic, and salt. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Allow the flavors to meld by letting it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve with tortilla chips or as a side to your favorite dishes.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: None
Variations
- Spicy Version: Keep some seeds in the jalapeños or add extra ones to kick up the heat.
- Add More Veggies: You can include more vegetables like cucumbers or even a little bit of sweet bell pepper for additional crunch and sweetness.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a more substantial meal.
- Swap Dressings: Experiment with different dressings like balsamic or a tangy vinaigrette for a different flavor twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover Cowboy Caviar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the avocado may start to brown after a while, but the flavor will still remain delicious.
- Reheating: This dish is best served fresh, but you can keep it in the fridge for a few days for a quick snack or to serve as a topping for salads or tacos.
FAQs
How long does Cowboy Caviar last in the fridge?
Cowboy Caviar will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, but the avocado may brown over time.
Can I use frozen corn in Cowboy Caviar?
Yes, you can substitute frozen corn for fresh or canned corn. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before using it in the recipe.
Is Cowboy Caviar spicy?
The level of spice depends on how much jalapeño you use. If you like it spicier, keep some seeds in the jalapeños or add more to taste.
Can I make Cowboy Caviar ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually recommended to let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Can I add more protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even blackened fish for a heartier version.
Can I use a different dressing for this recipe?
Yes! While Italian dressing adds a nice flavor, you can try other dressings like balsamic vinaigrette or even a homemade lemon-lime dressing.
What can I serve with Cowboy Caviar?
Cowboy Caviar pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, but it also works well as a topping for grilled meats, tacos, or even a salad.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! This Cowboy Caviar is vegetarian and can be made vegan by ensuring that your dressing is dairy-free.
Can I use other types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can use other beans such as pinto beans or kidney beans if you prefer.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To make it spicier, either leave some jalapeño seeds in or add extra jalapeños. You could also try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Cowboy Caviar is a colorful, flavorful dip that’s perfect for summer parties or as a healthy snack. With its combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and tangy dressing, it’s a versatile dish that can be made to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. Try it for your next get-together, and it’s sure to become a favorite!
Print
Cowboy Caviar Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cowboy Caviar is a vibrant and refreshing salsa made with fresh vegetables, beans, corn, and a zesty lime and Italian dressing combination. It’s a healthy, versatile dish perfect for parties or as a light appetizer.
Ingredients
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
15 oz can of corn, drained (or from 1 cooked cob)
15 oz can of black beans, well rinsed and drained
1/2 bunch of cilantro, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
3–4 tablespoons lime juice
1/2 cup light Italian dressing
4 medium garlic cloves, pressed
1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, jalapeños, avocado, corn, black beans, and cilantro.
- Add the lime juice, Italian dressing, pressed garlic, and salt. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Allow the flavors to meld by letting it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve with tortilla chips or as a side to your favorite dishes.
Notes
Letting the flavors meld for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the taste.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The avocado may brown, but the flavor will still be great.
Can be made spicier by adding more jalapeños or keeping some seeds in the peppers.
For extra protein, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
Feel free to swap the Italian dressing for other dressings like balsamic or a tangy vinaigrette.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
