Summer is in full swing, which means there are graduation parties, holidays like the 4th of July, and plenty of other reasons to gather with friends and family. One of the trickiest things can be finding appetizers to bring that are delicious but can also withstand the hot sun.
Anything cheese or mayo-based can spoil quickly, but with this Cowboy Caviar, you don’t need to worry! (And it’s delicious, healthy, and full of protein!)
The first time I made it, I was a little concerned it would be too bland or boring, but I promise if you follow the recipe below, you will love it! (Unless you don’t like beans or corn….)
Feel free to throttle the spice up or down based on your preferences. For us, we always air on the spicier side!
As always, I will now walk through a few of the key ingredients and cooking tips to help you crush this meal and be the dinner time hero:
- Beans & Peas – I will always recommend trying to find canned goods that are organic, so they have fewer preservatives. The main key in preparation is making sure to fully drain and rinse each before adding to the mixture.
- Jalapeno or Habanero – This can be omitted if you would like, but you can add either or. Both make a great addition for some heat in the dip!
- Bell Peppers – The color doesn’t necessarily matter, but I like the red and orange not only for their flavor, but also for the different pop of color they add to the dip! Make sure to dice them up finely!
- Spices – For each, you can absolutely add more or less to taste! This is my preference, but if there is something you wish to add or remove, go for it!
See below for full measurements and cooking instructions!


Cowboy Caviar
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans
- 1 can black eyed peas
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1/2 orange bell pepper
- 1/3 small red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 cups corn
- 1 small jalapeño
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- 3/4 tsp. Chipotle chili powder
Instructions
- Thoroughly drain and rinse the beans and peas, then add to a large mixing bowl.
- Finely chop the bell peppers, onion, and cilantro.
- Add everything else to the bowl, then mix everything together.
- Serve with tortilla chips
- Enjoy!



