Description
This Zesty Southern Texas Caviar Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring a medley of black-eyed peas, black beans, fresh vegetables, and a tangy, spiced vinaigrette. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and a mild kick of heat, this no-cook salad is ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish during warm weather.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Corn
- 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Beans and Corn: In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed and drained black-eyed peas, black beans, and corn kernels. Stir gently to combine all three ingredients evenly.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, seeded and finely chopped jalapeño pepper, and chopped fresh cilantro into the bowl. Toss everything together thoroughly so all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, lime juice, and honey until blended smoothly. Add ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then whisk again to fully incorporate the spices and seasonings.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the combined beans and vegetables. Gently toss the salad to ensure all the components are evenly coated with the zesty vinaigrette.
- Chill and Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Final Seasoning: Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or black pepper if necessary to enhance the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled as a vibrant side dish or as a delicious dip alongside tortilla chips.
Notes
- For extra heat, leave the jalapeño seeds in.
- Make the salad a day ahead for even better flavor infusion.
- Use fresh lime juice rather than bottled for a brighter taste.
- Can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Great as a party dip or a healthy, flavorful side for barbecues.
