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Fresh Cowboy Caviar Recipe with Zesty Lime Cilantro Dressing

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A fresh, vibrant bean and vegetable salad tossed in a zesty lime cilantro dressing, perfect for summer gatherings and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or thawed frozen corn)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large ripe avocado, diced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
  • ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Rinse and drain the canned black beans and black-eyed peas thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Dice the red bell pepper and red onion finely, about ¼ inch pieces.
  3. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the ripe avocado into similar-sized chunks. Cut fresh corn kernels off the cob if using fresh corn. Chop cilantro leaves roughly, avoiding thick stems.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed beans, corn, diced bell pepper, onion, and cherry tomatoes. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to coat evenly.
  6. Carefully fold in the diced avocado and chopped cilantro to avoid mashing the avocado.
  7. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
  8. Give a gentle toss before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or light main with tortilla chips or grilled meats.

Notes

Rinse canned beans well to remove excess salt and starch. Add avocado last and fold gently to keep chunks intact. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Optional: add jalapeño for heat or substitute honey with maple syrup for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy caviar, fresh salsa, bean salad, lime cilantro dressing, summer recipe, vegan, gluten-free, quick salad

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/fresh-cowboy-caviar-recipe-with-zesty-lime-cilantro-dressing-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/