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Easy Cowboy Caviar with Black Beans and Corn

easy cowboy caviar with black beans and corn - featured image

A quick and easy cowboy caviar with black beans and corn that comes together in under 15 minutes. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and lazy Sunday snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
  • 2 medium Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced small
  • ½ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • ½ cup cilantro, chopped
  • ¼ cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 large avocado, diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the beans and corn: Open the can of black beans and pour them into a colander. Rinse under cold running water for about 30 seconds until the foam disappears. Let them drain well. Open the corn and drain it thoroughly. Pat both with paper towels if you have time.
  2. Dice the vegetables: Cut the red bell pepper in half, remove seeds and white ribs, then slice into thin strips and dice into small pieces. Dice the Roma tomatoes. Finely dice the red onion. Mince the jalapeño carefully.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the lime juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously with a fork, or put the lid on the jar and shake it well. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Combine everything: Add the drained black beans, drained corn, diced bell pepper, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top. Use a large spoon to gently fold everything together until well coated.
  5. Let it rest: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. If you have more time, 30 minutes is even better.
  6. Taste and adjust: After the rest, give it a taste. Add more salt, lime juice, or cumin as needed.
  7. Add avocado (if using): Dice the avocado right before serving and fold it in gently.
  8. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately after the rest period.

Notes

Dry your ingredients well to prevent a watery dressing. Cut everything the same size for consistent bites. Let the salad rest for 20 minutes to meld flavors. If making ahead, keep dressing separate and combine an hour before serving. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy caviar, black bean salad, corn salsa, easy appetizer, potluck recipe, vegan, gluten-free