Cowboy Caviar Vibrant Salad (Print Version)

A colorful mix of black beans, corn, peppers, and lime vinaigrette for a fresh, vibrant dish.

# Components:

→ Beans and Vegetables

01 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
02 - 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained or 1 1/2 cups thawed frozen corn
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 small red onion, finely diced
06 - 1 medium tomato, diced (optional)
07 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
08 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Lime Vinaigrette

09 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
10 - 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
11 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
12 - 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
14 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
15 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
16 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, mix black beans, corn, red and green bell peppers, red onion, tomato if using, jalapeño if using, and chopped cilantro.
02 - Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey or agave if using, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
03 - Pour the vinaigrette over the mixed vegetables and beans, tossing gently to coat ingredients evenly.
04 - Let the salad rest for at least 10 minutes to meld flavors.
05 - Chill or serve at room temperature as a salad, dip with tortilla chips, or taco topping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's the kind of dish that works everywhere—as a side, a dip, or even spooned into taco shells for a light lunch.
  • Made entirely from pantry staples and a trip to the produce section, which means your wallet stays happy.
  • The longer it sits, the more the flavors blend into something almost addictive, making it perfect for meal prep.
02 -
  • The absolute game-changer is letting the salad rest before serving; flavors genuinely improve after sitting in the fridge for even two hours, so make it ahead if you can.
  • If you're adding avocado or cucumber, do it just before serving, otherwise they'll turn soft and sad while waiting in the vinaigrette.
03 -
  • Make this salad in a mason jar with layers—it travels beautifully to picnics and potlucks and looks intentional rather than thrown together.
  • If you're serving it as a dip, make it slightly thinner with an extra squeeze of lime juice and a splash more olive oil so chips can scoop it easily.
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