Texas Caviar

Texas Caviar is a colorful, flavorful dish that combines black-eyed peas and fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious and versatile option for any occasion. This Texan classic is packed with bold flavors and can be served as a dip, salad, or side dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a light snack, Texas Caviar will certainly impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Ingredients

• 1 can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red or green)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and no cooking is required.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 180 calories, 8g of protein, 10g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 5g of fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a large bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cumin.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture.
4. Gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Stir the salad again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
8. Enjoy with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a side dish.
9. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
10. Garnish with additional cilantro before serving, if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to substitute black-eyed peas with other beans like black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile. You can also add diced avocado for creaminess or jalapeños for extra heat.

Serving and Pairings

Texas Caviar pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or can be served as a topping for grilled meats. It also complements fresh salads and is a great addition to any picnic or barbecue spread.

Storage and Reheating

Store Texas Caviar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed cold and does not need reheating. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables may change.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overdressing the salad can make it soggy; use the dressing sparingly.
• Not allowing the flavors to meld by refrigerating may result in a bland taste.
• Using canned beans without rinsing can make the dish overly salty.
• Chopping vegetables too large can affect the texture.
• Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Helpful Tips

• Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste.
• Allow the salad to sit longer for enhanced flavor.
• Experiment with different types of peppers for varied heat levels.

FAQs

What is Texas Caviar?

Texas Caviar is a bean salad made primarily with black-eyed peas, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It is often served as a dip or salad.

Can Texas Caviar be made in advance?

Yes, it can be prepared a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop further.

Is Texas Caviar healthy?

Yes, it is packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients from the beans and vegetables, making it a healthy option for snacking or as a side dish.

What can I serve with Texas Caviar?

Texas Caviar is great with tortilla chips, grilled meats, or as a standalone salad. It also works well in tacos or burritos.

Can I freeze Texas Caviar?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables may change. It is best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Texas Caviar is a delightful and versatile dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering. With its fresh ingredients and zesty flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy this Texan classic at your next event!

Texas Caviar

Texas Caviar is a vibrant bean salad combining black-eyed peas, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, perfect for parties and gatherings.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Texan

Keyword: texas caviar, bean salad, party recipes, healthy snacks

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 180kcal

Ingredients

• 1 can black-eyed peas drained and rinsed
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cumin.
• Pour the dressing over the bean mixture.
• Gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
• Stir the salad again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Enjoy with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a side dish.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Garnish with additional cilantro before serving, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 5g