Texas caviar is a flavorful and colorful dish that combines black-eyed peas, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing. This easy-to-make recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish for gatherings. Serve it with tortilla chips, and watch it disappear in no time!
Ingredients
– 1 can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and there’s no cooking time involved.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1/2 cup) contains about 150 calories, 7g protein, 10g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by draining and rinsing the black-eyed peas under cold water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, and garlic powder.
4. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture.
5. Add chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
9. Serve chilled with tortilla chips for dipping.
10. Enjoy your Texas caviar at gatherings or as a tasty snack!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute black-eyed peas with canned chickpeas for a different texture. You can also swap fresh cilantro for parsley if you prefer a milder herb flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Texas caviar pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, but it can also be served alongside grilled meats or as a topping for tacos. It’s perfect for parties and potlucks!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Texas caviar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served cold, so no need to reheat. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing the black-eyed peas can lead to a salty taste.
- Using overripe tomatoes may alter the flavor negatively.
- Forgetting to chill can result in less vibrant flavors.
- Not adjusting seasoning can make the dish bland.
- Skipping the resting time prevents flavors from blending.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of beans for variety.
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Chill overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings.
FAQs
What is Texas caviar?
Texas caviar is a cold salad made primarily from black-eyed peas, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing. It’s often served as a dip with tortilla chips and is popular in Southern cuisine.
Can I make Texas caviar ahead of time?
Yes, Texas caviar can be made a day ahead. Allowing it to refrigerate overnight enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious when served.
How long does Texas caviar last in the fridge?
Texas caviar can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. After that, the vegetables may become soggy.
What can I serve with Texas caviar?
Texas caviar is great with tortilla chips but also pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as a topping for salads. It’s versatile and complements many dishes.
Is Texas caviar healthy?
Yes, Texas caviar is a healthy option, packed with fiber and protein from the beans and nutrients from the fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Conclusion
Texas caviar is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of Southern cuisine. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Enjoy it chilled with friends and family for the ultimate snack experience.
Texas Caviar
Ingredients
- 1 can black-eyed peas drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by draining and rinsing the black-eyed peas under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, and garlic powder.
- Pour the dressing over the bean mixture.
- Add chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips for dipping.
- Enjoy your Texas caviar at gatherings or as a tasty snack!
