Tasty Texas Caviar

Tasty Texas Caviar: A Creamy, Zesty Southern Dip That’ll Make Your Taste Buds Dance!

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a Southern classic that’s as colorful as it is delicious. This updated Texas Caviar adds creamy avocado to the mix, elevating the traditional recipe with a buttery texture that perfectly complements the zesty flavors. Despite its name, this dip doesn’t contain any fish eggs. Instead, it combines the heartiness of black-eyed peas with the crunch of fresh vegetables and a zingy dressing that’ll have you coming back for more.

This crowd-pleasing appetizer is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish on a hot summer day. The addition of avocado not only enhances the flavor but also adds healthy fats to the already nutritious mix. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even more delightful taste experience.

Originating in Texas during the 1940s, this dish was coined “caviar” as a humorous nod to the more expensive delicacy. It’s packed with protein and fiber from the black-eyed peas, and now with the added avocado, it’s even more satisfying. Pair it with tortilla chips or crackers for a satisfying crunch, or serve it alongside grilled meats for a well-rounded meal.

Tasty Texas Caviar Recipe

Ingredients:

1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 red bell pepper, finely diced

1 green bell pepper, finely diced

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

2 ripe avocados, diced, optional

1 red tomato, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained and rinsed black-eyed peas and black beans, diced red and green bell peppers, minced jalapeño, chopped tomato, chopped red onion, and cilantro.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, honey, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.

3. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Just before serving, dice the avocados (optional) and gently fold them into the mixture.

6. Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary.

7. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a side dish.

Notes:

• Add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
• For a spicier version, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• You can substitute canned black-eyed peas with freshly cooked ones if preferred.
• This dip is best consumed within 24 hours after adding the avocado.

Nutrition Information

Serving size: 1/2 cup

Calories: 150

Fat: 9g

Protein: 5g

Carbohydrates: 15g

Fiber: 5g

Sugar: 3g

Sodium: 230mg

Other Information

Prep time: 25 minutes

Chill time: 2 hours

Equipment used: Large mixing bowl, small bowl, cutting board, knife, measuring cups and spoons

Estimated cost per serving: $1.00

Total cost for recipe: Approximately $8.00 (serves 8)

In Conclusion, Tasty Texas Caviar

This elevated Texas Caviar recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your snack cravings. The addition of creamy avocado takes this classic to new heights, making it even more irresistible. Its simplicity, nutritional value, and ability to be partially prepared in advance make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a healthy meal prep option, this vibrant, avocado-enhanced dip is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Read more about Texas Foods here.

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