Texas Cowboy Caviar Dip

Texas cowboy caviar dip is a bold mix of beans, corn and veggies in a zesty vinaigrette. It’s quick, colorful and packed with sassy Southwestern flavor.

Also try cowboy beans, cowboy meatloaf and potatoes, a cowboy beef and rice skillet, and cowboy sliders – they may be small but they’re hearty!

Why You’ll Love It

No cooking needed: Just mix it all together and chill.
Flavor-packed: Tangy, sweet and a little spicy in every bite.
Multi-purpose: Great as a dip, salad or taco topper.
Perfect for parties: Make it ahead and serve it cold.

Texas Cowboy Caviar Dip Recipe Ingredients

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Black eyed peas: Earthy and firm, they add Southern flair.
Black beans: Creamy and mild for texture and balance.
Corn: Adds natural sweetness and juicy crunch. You can use canned or freshly cooked corn. Frozen corn works too, if you first thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding to the mix.
Red and green bell peppers: Bright, crisp and colorful.
Red onion: Sharp and vibrant with a bit of bite.
Jalapeño pepper: Brings mild heat and freshness.
Fresh herbs: Cilantro adds a citrusy pop and brightens the dish.
Olive oil: Forms the base of the vinaigrette.
Lime juice: Adds fresh acidity and tang.
Red wine vinegar: Boosts sharpness and rounds out flavor.
Spices: Garlic powder, chili powder and cumin give it Southwestern depth.
Granulated sugar: Balances the acid with subtle sweetness.
Avocado: Optional, but adds creamy richness if used.

How to Make Texas Cowboy Caviar

For more detailed instructions with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

Combine base ingredients: Mix beans, corn, peppers, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a large bowl.
Make the dressing: Whisk olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, sugar, and spices in a separate bowl.
Toss to coat: Pour the vinaigrette over the bean mixture and stir well.
Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate, then serve with crackers or chips.

Substitutions and Variations

Swap the beans: Try using pinto or kidney beans in place of black eyed peas or black beans.
Make it spicier: Add extra jalapeño or use a serrano pepper.
Add texture: Toss in diced cucumber or halved cherry tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

With other savory appetizers: Pair your cowboy caviar with Cajun shrimp deviled eggs, chicken nuggets and homemade garlic marinara sauce and pizza sliders.
With something sweet: Whip up a batch of hummingbird cupcakes or perhaps some vanilla muffins.
Other ways to enjoy it: Try this Texas cowboy dip recipe with tortilla or corn chips or pair it with meat or fish as a side dish. Serve some cowboy candy on the side (a great pickled jalapeno dish!) Another idea is to stir it into cooked pasta, rice or quinoa to make a salad.

How to Store Cowboy Caviar

Store: This Texas cowboy dip keeps well in the refrigerator for about 4 days, so you might like to make a big batch.
Freeze: Alternatively, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Thaw: Thaw it out in the refrigerator for a day or so and then stir it well before serving.