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Fresh Cowboy Caviar Recipe with Easy Honey Lime Dressing for Summer

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A vibrant and fresh cowboy caviar salad featuring black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and a bright honey lime dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup (40 g) red onion, finely chopped (optional: soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow)
  • 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons honey (or agave/maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the black beans and black-eyed peas thoroughly to remove any excess salt or canning liquid.
  2. If using frozen corn, thaw it completely by running it under warm water and draining well.
  3. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion (soak in cold water for 5 minutes if you want less bite), and chop the cilantro and jalapeño.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine the honey, fresh lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, and ground cumin. Whisk or shake until emulsified. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, add the beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
  6. Pour the honey lime dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is coated evenly.
  7. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  8. Before serving, give it a quick toss and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.

Notes

Soak onions in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow sharpness. Let salad rest at least 15 minutes for best flavor. Adjust honey and lime juice to balance sweet and tart. Use fresh lime zest for brightness. For vegan option, substitute honey with agave or maple syrup. Frozen corn can be used but fresh corn is preferred in season.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy caviar, honey lime dressing, summer salad, black beans, fresh salsa, easy appetizer, gluten-free, vegan option