This Easy Cowboy Caviar recipe is fresh, tangy, and packed with flavor! Serve it as a dip, side dish, or topping — it’s naturally vegan and perfect for meal prep, summer bbq, picnics, potlucks, and game days!

I’m a huge fan of dipping foods — and this simple dip is the ultimate go-to! It’s always a big hit with the family and is made with fresh ingredients (such an easy win!). This delicious dip pairs perfectly with chips, but I personally love it with white corn tortillas cooked on the comal until crispy — so, so good!

Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe, little by little, getting it just to our liking. We love the tangy, citrusy depth and can hardly wait for the marinating time—and, truthfully, I usually don’t!

While I’m not a fan of using a lot of oil, I’ve found that adding just two tablespoons brings the perfect amount of richness. The avocados still provide a creamy feel, so the dip isn’t heavy — just perfectly balanced. I usually double the recipe since it disappears fast and works incredibly well for meal prep.

Why this recipe works

Tangy + bright — The combination of fresh lime juice and red wine vinegar brings the perfect acidity.
Perfect texture — Crisp bell peppers, sweet corn, and creamy black beans create a balanced bite.
Meal prep-friendly — Flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day.
Versatile — Use as a dip, a taco topper, or create a Mexican bowl with quinoa or rice.
Healthy & plant-based — No processed ingredients, just fresh, whole foods!

If you love fresh, tangy dips like this, you’ll also love our Restaurant-Style Pico de Gallo and Homemade Fresh Guacamole, another flavor-packed favorite!

Substitutions & additions for Cowboy Caviar

No black-eyed peas? Swap them for different types of beans, like pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Want extra spice? Add more jalapeño peppers, serrano peppers, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Extra crushed red pepper flakes or chipotle powder work too!
Sweeter twist? Add mango, diced peaches, or pomegranate seeds for a sweet contrast to the tangy dressing.
Roma tomatoes: You could also use vine tomatoes or grape tomatoes.
Oil-free option: You can reduce or eliminate the oil if you prefer — the avocados provide natural creaminess and healthy fats, making it just as delicious. Without oil, the dressing may taste tangier, so start with 1 tablespoon less vinegar and lime juice, then adjust to taste. You can also add a bit more maple syrup for balance.
Vinegar: For a different tang, try using balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or rice wine vinegar instead of red wine vinegar.
No fresh garlic? Use 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder instead.

In the kitchen tips

Let it sit! — The flavors blend really well after 30 minutes. If you can wait 2–3 hours, even better!
Keep avocados fresh — If eating within 30 minutes, you can mix in the avocados right away. If letting it sit longer, add them just before serving to prevent browning. Tossing them in lime juice also helps slow oxidation.
Great make-ahead recipe — Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days. The lime juice and vinegar act as natural preservatives.
Spice it up — Add extra jalapeño, chili powder, or cayenne if you love heat.
Customize it! — Swap black-eyed peas for pinto beans or use cherry tomatoes instead of Roma.
Serving suggestion — Instead of chips, try it with crispy baked tortillas, on top of quinoa, or spooned over a baked sweet potato.

How to make Cowboy Caviar

Ingredients in small white bowls with labels.

Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, lime juice, olive oil, maple syrup, oregano, crushed red pepper, and sea salt.

Chop your veggies.

Gently mix everything in a large bowl. Enjoy!

Storage & meal prep

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Meal prep tip: If meal prepping, store without avocados and add them fresh before eating.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the tomatoes and avocados become mushy once thawed.
On-the-go: Keep it chilled with an ice pack for picnics, potlucks, or work lunches.

FAQ

Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?
Canned corn works great — just drain it well before adding.
What if I want it less tangy?
Reduce the lime juice to 4 tbsp or increase the maple syrup to 1.5 tsp for balance.
Can I change the dressing for Cowboy Caviar?
A homemade dressing with red wine vinegar is traditional, but you can also use Italian dressing, balsamic vinegar, or a light Italian salad dressing for a different flavor.
Can I freeze Cowboy Caviar?
Not suggested, as freezing changes the texture of the tomatoes and avocados, making them mushy.
How can I make Texas Caviar even heartier?
Add quinoa, cooked farro, or diced sweet potatoes for a more filling meal — or even inside a wrap for a great way to enjoy leftovers!

Easy Cowboy Caviar

Why this recipe works

Substitutions & additions for Cowboy Caviar

In the kitchen tips

How to make Cowboy Caviar

Storage & meal prep

FAQ