Cowboy caviar, also known as Texas caviar, is a salsa-like dip that began in Texas (as its nickname suggests). This Tiktok dip is seasoned with a fiery, tangy vinegar dressing for added flavour.
The ingredients are simple and healthy, including various beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes and avocado. Many people make this chip dip to take to gatherings, as each batch can serve a large number of people.
This salad was invented in the 1950s by Helen Corbitt, a well-known Neiman Marcus food director. She served this dish (originally known as “pickled black-eyed peas”) during a Christmas dinner at the country club. Pretty soon after, the dish was dubbed Texas caviar and eventually cowboy caviar as a joking comparison to authentic fish-egg caviar.
Black beans are a top source of protein for vegetarians and vegans. It’s a fibre-rich ingredient that helps you feel satisfied, while enjoying this Tiktok recipe.
Pinto beans are another excellent source of fibre and protein in cowboy caviar. This bean variety has many different nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. They help bulk up the cowboy caviar, though you can use any bean you prefer.
Sweetcorn is one of the ingredients that helps bring a fresh, summery feel to the dish. It’s a fun way to add colour, flavour and nutrients to the salsa. If you’re short on time, (defrosted) frozen corn can also work in this recipe.
Mixed peppers add the perfect amount of crunch to each bite of cowboy salad. They’re nutritious and aid in providing a slight sweetness that balances out the heat from the Cajun seasoning.
Using fresh coriander helps provide a delightfully fresh taste to the dish. Coriander typically has a citrusy, lightly sweet flavour, making it the perfect complement to the other fresh flavours in the salad.
Pickled jalapenos are punchy, spicy and unexpected yet perfectly fit in with the recipe. If you prefer a less spicy dish, you can instead use pickled onions.
Tortilla chips are a must-have with cowboy caviar; they add a delicious crunch and saltiness to the mixture. Alternatively, you can use other veggies such as celery for an even healthier take on this recipe.
Adding Cajun spice ties the dish together effortlessly. Other versions of this viral Tiktok recipe only use salt and pepper to flavour the dressing. Cajun spices offer an extra taste boost.
Thoroughly rinse the pinto beans using a fine colander and add to the bowl.
Other fresh veggies you could add:
Other proteins you could add:
Can I refrigerate the leftovers?
Yes! Cowboy caviar with vinegar is one type of salad that holds up well in the fridge. If you can’t finish the whole bowl, you can keep it in the fridge for an additional 4-5 days without issue.
You can serve them on the side so each individual can add them to their plate as desired. By doing so, you’re preventing a watery, unappetizing salad with brown avocados.
Yes! Cowboy caviar with vinegar is one type of salad that holds up well in the fridge. If you can’t finish the whole bowl, you can keep it in the fridge for an additional 4-5 days without issue. Just store the tortillas separately in a sealed container to prevent sogginess/ keep them crispy.
Can I freeze extra cowboy caviar?
You can! If you avoid leafy greens in cowboy caviar, you can easily freeze this dish for 2-3 months. Separate the salad into individual portions to make it easier to defrost. Then, when you’re ready to eat the salsa, leave the frozen container in the fridge overnight so it can defrost.
Make sure to keep it in airtight containers in the freezer, as this will help avoid frost.