Name: Black-Eyed Peas Texas Caviar
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cans black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed); 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 red bell pepper (diced); 1 small red onion (finely chopped); 1 –2 jalapeños (seeded and minced (optional)); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2 –3 green onions (sliced); 1 –2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 –2 tsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); Optional: diced avocado for garnish

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Black-Eyed Peas Texas Caviar Dip bursts with vibrant colors and fresh, zesty flavors that capture the spirit of Texas cookouts and casual gatherings. This lively bean dip combines tender black-eyed peas with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, making it a fantastic crowd-pleaser and party starter.

Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a bright side dish, this Texas caviar dip offers refreshing textures and a flavorful punch. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, it’s a go-to recipe for snacking or complementing any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded with wholesome black-eyed peas and fresh vegetables for a healthy boost.
Bright lime and apple cider vinegar dressing provides a zesty, tangy kick.
Customizable heat level with optional jalapeños to suit all tastes.
Delicious served chilled or at room temperature with chips or as a side.

Ingredients

Black-eyed peas: Two cans drained and rinsed to bring tender, creamy beans rich in fiber and protein.
Corn kernels: One cup of fresh, frozen, or canned corn for sweet crunch and vibrant color contrast.
Red bell pepper: One diced pepper adds crisp texture and a mild, sweet flavor to brighten the dip.
Red onion: Finely chopped to lend a subtle sharpness and aromatic depth to the mix.
Jalapeños: One to two seeded and minced, optional, to add warming spice and boldness.
Fresh cilantro: Quarter-cup chopped, delivering a fresh, citrusy herb note for brightness.
Green onions: Two to three sliced for delicate onion flavor and color accent.
Lime juice: One to two tablespoons of fresh juice that provides zesty acidity and lifts all flavors.
Olive oil: Three tablespoons of smooth oil to bind the ingredients and add richness.
Apple cider vinegar: One to two teaspoons for a mild tangy undertone and enhanced zest.
Ground cumin: One teaspoon of earthy spice balancing the fresh vegetables and beans.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: To taste, seasoning the dip perfectly to your preference.
Diced avocado (optional): For creamy texture and a rich garnish that complements the tangy flavors.

Instructions

Combine the Base: In a large mixing bowl, gently add the rinsed black-eyed peas, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, optional jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions. Mixing these crisp and tender ingredients evenly lays the foundation for a beautifully textured dip bursting with freshness.
Make the Dressing: Whisk together freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until fully emulsified. This dressing balances acidity and richness while introducing subtle spices, which will enhance every bite of the dip.
Toss & Chill: Pour the dressing evenly over the combined ingredients and gently toss to coat all components thoroughly. Allow the dip to chill in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes. This chilling step melds the flavors harmoniously and lets the textures soften slightly for better blending.
Serve: Present the Texas caviar dip chilled or at room temperature with your favorite tortilla chips, pita chips, or a selection of fresh vegetable sticks. Optionally, garnish with diced avocado for creamy contrast and a beautiful finish.

You Must Know

Adjust the jalapeño amount or add chili powder for your preferred spice level.
For a sweet twist, mix in diced mango or pineapple to balance the tang.
Store leftovers in an airtight container; flavors improve after resting overnight.
This dip pairs wonderfully as a side salad for grilled dishes or inside tacos.

Storage Tips

Store the Texas caviar dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Flavors deepen and improve as the ingredients marinate, making it a great make-ahead option for parties and meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dip with crunchy tortilla or pita chips for snacking, or use it as a vibrant topping for tacos and grilled meats. It also works beautifully as a refreshing side salad alongside your favorite dinner recipes.

Professional Tips

Use fresh lime juice rather than bottled for a brighter, fresher taste.
Seed jalapeños well to control heat without losing flavor.
Customize the recipe by adding other beans or fresh diced tomatoes for variety.
For extra texture, lightly toast corn kernels before adding.

FAQs

Can I use dried black-eyed peas instead of canned?: Yes, soak and cook dried black-eyed peas until tender before using. Canned peas are just a convenient time-saver.
Is this dip gluten-free?: Absolutely! This dish contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?: Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for several hours or overnight, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
What can I substitute for jalapeños?: You may use mild green chilies or omit them entirely if you prefer no heat.
How do I store leftovers?: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Can I add other ingredients?: Feel free to add diced tomatoes, black beans, or chopped mango for extra flavor and texture dimensions.