Cowboy caviar

What you need to know about cowboy caviar

Firstly, this iconic Tex-Mex-inspired dish has nothing to do with fish roe. Rather, it’s a hearty salad recipe that combines beans and a colourful array of crunchy vegetables tossed in a zesty coriander dressing. The tongue-in-cheek name, cowboy caviar, most likely comes from the use of black beans that vaguely resemble caviar.

Also known as Texas caviar, the first version of this bean salad was created in Dallas in the 1940s by legendary chef Helen Corbitt. An instant hit, it remains a staple at picnics, potluck dinners and barbecues right across the Lone Star State.

Traditionally served with crispy tortilla chips for dipping and scooping, when combined with a fresh, crunchy, tangy salad, it’s fantastic. Serve with finger food next time you have friends over, or whip it up as a salad or side dish any time.

Cowboy caviar: best recipe tips

It’s hard to go wrong with this simple salad, but these pointers will help you get the best results, starting with the vegetables. They need to be finely chopped so that each bite has the perfect balance of flavour and texture. Choose an avocado that is ripe but firm and add it before serving, so it doesn’t turn brown. Coriander will retain its springy freshness if mixed in at the last minute, too.

As with many recipes, the best cowboy caviar recipe is most likely the one you have customised to your preference, so add any ingredients you like, such as yellow peppers, diced carrots or baby spinach. You can also substitute black beans for black-eyed peas, cannellini or kidney beans. Make sure to drain them well as you don’t want to dilute your cowboy caviar dressing.

Beans are the backbone of this cowboy caviar recipe and are packed with protein. There are so many beans, lentils and legume recipes to experiment with and discover more ways to enjoy this versatile ingredient.

Try these different ways to enjoy cowboy caviar

While it’s probably best known as a starter or dip served with corn chips, cowboy caviar holds its own as a delicious salad. Why not try layering it with shredded lettuce, fetta cheese and a sprinkle of toasted pepitas? You can also add fresh diced mango for a touch of sweetness and consider serving a scoop in a nourishing buddha bowl.

With its bold flavour, cowboy caviar can accompany any Mexican dish. Try it as a tasty topper for grilled fish or chicken tacos, use it as a filling for burritos, or serve it as a side for fajitas. For an irresistible snack, make Mexican-style quesadillas by folding tortillas with cheddar cheese. Lightly grill, then top with a generous helping of cowboy caviar salad and sour cream.

Flavour-packed Mexican food is fun to share. Explore ideas for your next fiesta with a range of Mexican recipes that are guaranteed to satisfy.