Easy Giddy Up Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Easy Giddy Up Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Ingredients

  • Beans & Veggies
    • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
    • ½ cup diced red bell pepper
    • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
    • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • Fresh Additions
    • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
    • 1 large avocado, diced
  • Dressing
    • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
    • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
    • 1 tsp ground cumin
    • ½ tsp chili powder
    • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine Base Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, gently stir together black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and minced jalapeño.
  2. Prepare Dressing
    In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  3. Dress the Salad
    Pour dressing over vegetable mixture. Using a silicone spatula, fold until evenly coated (about 30 seconds).
  4. Add Avocado
    Gently fold in diced avocado just until distributed – avoid overmixing to prevent mushiness.
  5. Chill & Marinate
    Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (ideal: 1 hour) to allow flavors to blend.
  6. Serve
    Stir once before transferring to a serving bowl. Enjoy with tortilla chips, on nachos, or as a taco topping.

Extra Tips

  • Avocado Longevity: Toss avocado with 1 tsp lime juice before adding to prevent browning.
  • Heat Adjustment: Include jalapeño seeds for extra spice or substitute with poblano for mild flavor.
  • Make-Ahead: Combine all ingredients except avocado/dressing 1 day ahead. Add dressing and avocado before serving.
  • Protein Boost: Mix in ½ cup crumbled queso fresco or grilled shrimp for heartier meals.
  • Vegan Note: Naturally plant-based and gluten-free – great for diverse gatherings

FAQ's

Q: Can I use canned corn?
A: Absolutely! Drain 1 (15oz) can thoroughly. For smoky flavor, pan-sear kernels 2-3 minutes.

Q: How to store leftovers?
A: Keep refrigerated in airtight container 2 days. Avocado softens but remains edible.

Q: Cilantro substitute?
A: Use flat leaf parsley or 1 tbsp Mexican oregano for different herbal notes.

Q: Can I make this nut free?
A: Naturally nut free! Safe for allergy-conscious groups.

Q: Serving ideas beyond chips?
A: Try in grain bowls, atop grilled chicken/fish, or as a quesadilla filling

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