Texas Caviar Recipe

Name: Texas Caviar Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This vibrant Texas Caviar recipe features a delightful medley of black-eyed peas, colorful bell peppers, and zesty seasonings, making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings or a refreshing snack. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips or use it as a topping for grilled meats. This easy-to-make dish is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-11-28T04:33:43.370Z

The Origin of Texas Caviar

Texas Caviar is a delightful dish that embodies the spirit of Southern cuisine. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with fish eggs; instead, it’s a vibrant salad made with black-eyed peas. This dish originated in the 1940s in Texas, created by an innovative chef looking to elevate humble ingredients. Over the years, it has become a staple at parties and gatherings throughout the American South, celebrated for its fresh flavors and versatility.

Traditionally served as a dip for tortilla chips, Texas Caviar has evolved into a beloved dish that people enjoy in many ways. Whether served at a picnic, backyard barbecue, or holiday gathering, it adds a festive touch to any event. With its bright colors and zesty taste, it's not just food; it's an experience that brings people together around the table.

Flavor Combinations and Variations

One of the best things about Texas Caviar is its bold flavor profile. The combination of sweet bell peppers, tart cherry tomatoes, and spicy jalapeños creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite exciting. Additionally, the fresh cilantro adds a unique herbaceous note, enhancing the dish's overall appeal. It's a balanced medley that can excite your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Feel free to experiment with variations by adding different ingredients to suit your personal tastes. For instance, you could include diced avocado for creaminess or substitute black beans for a slightly different texture. Some people even enjoy a touch of sweetness, adding corn or diced mango. Texas Caviar is highly adaptable, ensuring that you can create a version that is uniquely yours while still honoring its classic roots.

Serving Suggestions

Texas Caviar is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. While it is fantastic as a dip with crispy tortilla chips, you might also consider it as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or tacos. The freshness of the ingredients can elevate even the simplest meal, turning it into something special. Additionally, serving it over greens can create a refreshing salad option that's perfect for summer.

When planning a party or gathering, consider offering Texas Caviar as part of a diverse appetizer spread. Its vibrant colors make for an attractive presentation, and it pairs beautifully with other finger foods. A bowl of Texas Caviar alongside a selection of cheeses, meats, and other dips will surely impress your guests and encourage them to dig in.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to create this delicious dish.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients well for a flavorful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Texas Caviar.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeño.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Mix Together

Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.

Chill and Serve

Allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your Texas Caviar with tortilla chips or as a topping!

Tips for the Best Texas Caviar

For the freshest flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes and crunchy bell peppers. Choosing high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the dish’s taste. Additionally, let the mixture chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.

Don’t be afraid to adjust the level of spice according to your preference. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or remove the seeds altogether. On the other hand, if you love a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Storage and Shelf Life

Texas Caviar is perfect for meal prep! After preparing the dish, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days, making it an excellent option for quick snacks or meals. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, so it may even taste better the second day.

When storing, keep in mind that the vegetables may soften over time, so it’s best to enjoy it within a few days for optimal crunchiness. If you are serving a crowd, consider halving the recipe to avoid excessive leftovers, particularly if you have a smaller gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Texas Caviar ahead of time?

Yes, this dish tastes even better after it sits for a few hours or overnight.

→ What can I serve with Texas Caviar?

It goes great with tortilla chips, on tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats.