Cowgirl Caviar

Introduction

Cowgirl Caviar is a fresh, colorful, and flavor-packed salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Loaded with beans, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and tangy feta, this dish is both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. It works beautifully as a light salad, a party dip, or a refreshing side dish. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

Salad

• Black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed – 1 can (15 oz)

• Cannellini beans, drained and rinsed – 1 can (15 oz)

• Red bell pepper, diced – 1

• Cherry tomatoes, halved – 1 cup

• Large cucumber, diced – 1

• Kalamata olives, chopped – ½ cup

• Red onion, diced – ½

• Fresh mint, chopped – ¼ cup

• Fresh parsley, chopped – ¼ cup

• Feta cheese, crumbled – ¾ cup

Dressing

• Olive oil – ⅓ cup

• Lemon juice – from 1 lemon

• Garlic clove, minced – 1 large

• Red wine vinegar – 2 tablespoons

• Honey – 1 teaspoon

• Dried oregano – ½ teaspoon

• Salt and pepper – to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the black-eyed peas and cannellini beans. Add the diced red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, chopped Kalamata olives, and diced red onion. Toss gently to combine.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Cheese
Carefully fold in the chopped mint, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix lightly to keep the feta in chunky pieces.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, honey, and dried oregano until fully blended and emulsified.

Step 4: Toss and Season
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a salad or as a dip with pita chips, tortilla chips, or cucumber slices.

Conclusion

Cowgirl Caviar is a vibrant, wholesome dish that brings bold flavors and fresh textures to the table. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering, enjoying it as a healthy lunch, or scooping it up with chips for a snack, this versatile recipe is sure to become a favorite. Simple to make, refreshing to eat, and packed with goodness—this is one dish you’ll come back to again and again.