Savory Southwestern Salsa
This irresistible Savory Southwestern Salsa, often called Cowboy Caviar, is the ultimate party dish that combines fresh and vibrant flavors for an unforgettable taste experience. A delightful medley of sweet corn, hearty black-eyed peas, creamy avocados, and zesty tomatoes creates a colorful and satisfying snack perfect for gatherings, picnics, or even as a lunch option. Whether you serve it up as a dip with crispy tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. Be warned: one batch never seems to be enough; you might just find yourself doubling or tripling this recipe to satisfy everyone’s cravings!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
corn
1 (drained (11 ounce can))
black-eyed peas
2 (rinsed and drained (15 ounce cans))
avocados
2 (peeled and diced)
green onion
1 bunch (chopped)
fresh cilantro
1/2 cup (chopped)
roma tomatoes
4-5 (diced)
red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons
Tabasco sauce
2 teaspoons (to taste)
cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
salt
(to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained corn, black-eyed peas, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, red wine vinegar, Tabasco sauce, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
2
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the mixture for several hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
3
Before serving, peel and dice the avocados. Gently fold the diced avocado into the chilled mixture, being careful not to mash the avocados.
4
Serve the Cowboy Caviar in a large bowl accompanied by crispy tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Southwestern Salsa?
Savory Southwestern Salsa, also known as Cowboy Caviar, is a vibrant and fresh dip made from a medley of corn, black-eyed peas, avocados, and tomatoes.
Why is this recipe called Cowboy Caviar?
It is a popular nickname for this type of bean-based salsa, which originated in Texas as a humorous take on traditional caviar using accessible ingredients like black-eyed peas.
Can I substitute black-eyed peas with other beans?
Yes, you can easily substitute black-eyed peas with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer.
How long should I let the salsa refrigerate?
It is recommended to refrigerate the mixture for several hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can use frozen corn; just ensure it is thawed and well-drained before adding it to the mixture.
When should I add the avocado?
Add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from mashing or turning brown.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian and also happens to be vegan-friendly.
Is the salsa gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this Savory Southwestern Salsa are naturally gluten-free.
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
Roma tomatoes are ideal because they have a firmer texture and fewer seeds, which helps keep the salsa from becoming too watery.
How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?
The red wine vinegar in the dressing helps slow down oxidation, but adding the avocado right before serving is the best strategy.
Can I use lime juice instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes, lime juice is a great alternative and provides a bright, citrusy acidity that complements southwestern flavors.
How spicy is this salsa?
The spice level is mild to medium depending on how much Tabasco sauce you use; you can adjust it to your personal taste.
What should I serve with Savory Southwestern Salsa?
It is best served with crispy tortilla chips, but it also works great as a topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or fish.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the base (everything except the avocado) up to 24 hours in advance.
How many servings does this recipe make?
Depending on the serving size, this recipe typically serves 8 to 12 people as an appetizer dip.
Should I rinse the canned ingredients?
Yes, it is important to rinse and drain the corn and black-eyed peas to remove excess sodium and preserve the texture of the salsa.
Can I add bell peppers to this recipe?
Absolutely! Diced red, green, or yellow bell peppers add a nice crunch and extra color to the dish.
How long will leftovers stay fresh in the fridge?
Leftovers will stay fresh in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days, though the avocado may soften over time.
Can I freeze Cowboy Caviar?
Freezing is not recommended as it will ruin the texture of the fresh vegetables and the avocado.
Is this a healthy snack choice?
Yes, it is packed with fiber from the beans and corn, healthy fats from the avocado, and various vitamins from the fresh vegetables.
What if I don't like cilantro?
If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh flat-leaf parsley or simply omit it entirely.
Can I use dried black-eyed peas?
Yes, you can use dried peas if you cook them ahead of time and allow them to cool completely before mixing.
What kind of vinegar works best if I don't have red wine vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar are the closest substitutes that maintain the necessary tang.
Can I add sugar to the dressing?
Some people like to add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to balance the acidity, though this recipe focuses on savory flavors.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Generally yes, though you may want to reduce the Tabasco sauce and cracked black pepper for children sensitive to heat.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes are preferred for texture, but if you use canned, ensure they are thoroughly drained or use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra flavor.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
No, there is no need to peel the tomatoes for this recipe; just dice them with the skins on.
What is the best way to dice an avocado for salsa?
Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, score the flesh into a grid pattern while still in the skin, and then scoop it out with a spoon.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, a clove of minced garlic can be added to the dressing for an extra savory punch.
Is this salsa served hot or cold?
This salsa is traditionally served chilled, making it a refreshing option for warm weather gatherings.