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Fresh Cowboy Caviar Recipe with Creamy Avocado Lime Vinaigrette

fresh cowboy caviar - featured image

A fresh, colorful cowboy caviar salad featuring black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy avocado lime vinaigrette. Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup (150g) sweet corn kernels, fresh or thawed from frozen
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1 ripe avocado, mashed
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) honey or agave
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Water, to thin the dressing as needed

Instructions

  1. Rinse and drain black beans thoroughly. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain any excess water. Dice red bell pepper and halve cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice green onions and chop cilantro. Mince jalapeño if using. Place all prepared vegetables and beans in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, mash the ripe avocado until mostly smooth but with some texture. Add fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey or agave, and minced garlic. Whisk or stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add water a teaspoon at a time to reach desired creamy but pourable consistency.
  3. Pour the creamy avocado lime vinaigrette over the prepared vegetables and beans. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients without mashing the veggies.
  4. Taste and adjust seasonings with more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed. Optionally, chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.

Notes

Add avocado dressing just before serving to prevent browning. Drain canned beans and corn well to avoid sogginess. For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted pepitas or crushed tortilla chips on top before serving. Dressing consistency can be adjusted with water or olive oil. Variations include swapping tomatoes for mango or pineapple, adding spicy peppers, or adding protein like grilled shrimp or chicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy caviar, avocado lime vinaigrette, black beans, corn salad, fresh salad, gluten-free, vegan, summer recipe, easy recipe