Carolina Caviar is a delightful, flavorful dip that originated in the southeastern United States. This delightful dish, also known as Texas caviar or cowboy caviar, is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and delicious choice for any gathering or snack time. Here's how you can make this southern staple right in the comfort of your own kitchen in five simple steps.
Step 1: Gathering Ingredients
The key to a great Carolina Caviar lies in its fresh, vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1⁄4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar or lime juice
- 1⁄4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 avocado, diced
🍽️ Note: If you want to reduce the spiciness, omit or reduce the amount of jalapeños.
Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
The vibrant colors of Carolina Caviar are not just for show; they represent a variety of nutrients:
- Chop the red and green bell peppers into small, uniform pieces. This gives a festive look to your dish.
- Dice the red onion finely, ensuring that each piece is about the same size to distribute flavor evenly.
- Halve or quarter the grape tomatoes, depending on their size, for bite-sized pieces.
- Seed and finely chop the jalapeño peppers, wearing gloves to protect your skin from the oils if needed.
- Chop fresh cilantro; this herb adds a burst of freshness.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained black-eyed peas and black beans.
- Add the corn, red and green peppers, onions, tomatoes, and jalapeños if using.
- Mix in the cilantro for a touch of green color and added flavor.
- If using avocado, gently fold it into the mixture to prevent mashing.
🥑 Note: Avocado adds creaminess but oxidizes quickly, so add it just before serving.
Step 4: Dressing the Carolina Caviar
The dressing is what binds all the flavors together:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar or lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour this dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture, and gently mix to coat everything evenly.
- Let the caviar sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or refrigerate overnight for an even better taste.
Step 5: Serving
Carolina Caviar can be served in several delightful ways:
- Serve chilled as a dip with tortilla chips, pita bread, or sliced vegetables like cucumber or celery.
- Use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish tacos for an added zing.
- Add a scoop on top of a bed of greens for a hearty and healthy salad.
- As a side dish, it pairs well with grilled meats or barbecued foods.
By following these five straightforward steps, you'll have created a bowl of Carolina Caviar that is sure to be the highlight of any event or meal. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Each spoonful offers a burst of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser whether it's served at a potluck, as an appetizer, or just for snacking.
Can I make Carolina Caviar ahead of time?
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Yes, in fact, this dip benefits from sitting for a while. Make it the day before, but remember to add avocado just before serving if you choose to include it.
How long can I store Carolina Caviar in the fridge?
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Without avocado, Carolina Caviar can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. With avocado, it’s best consumed within a day.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe?
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Yes, the recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure the vinegar or lime juice used is vegan-friendly, and avoid honey if you choose to sweeten the dressing.
