Cowboy Caviar

I found this recipe several years ago and I have made various editions throughout the years.  Such an easy appetizer and healthy, as well.

Cowboy Caviar from allrecipes.com
1 (15.5 ounce) can black beans, drained
1 (15.5 ounce) can black-eyed peas, drained
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1/4 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1/2 cup chopped pickled jalapeno peppers
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
1 cup Italian salad dressing
3/4 cup chopped cilantro

Directions:  Mix beans, peas, tomatoes, corn, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno peppers in a large bowl. Season with garlic salt. Add dressing and cilantro; toss to coat. Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until ready to serve.

Modifications:
-I omitted the jalapeno.

Here's what you'll need:

Drain and rinse the beans, peas, and corns.

Dice up 1/2 of a green bell pepper.

Dice up 1/2 of an onion.

Drain a can of diced tomatoes.

Mince up 1/4 cup of cilantro.

Add 1 cup of Italian dressing.

Mix together and sprinkle some garlic salt on top.

Here's what you'll end up with:

Our Thoughts:

This has been a go-to recipe for years.  I love the different texture of the beans, corns, and peas combined with the crunch of the green pepper.  The Italian dressing is tangy and the tomatoes really soak up that flavor.  You can serve this with chips, crackers, or even celery.

This is also so easy because I usually have most of the ingredients in the pantry.  If you do not have fresh cilantro, you can use dried cilantro.  Or, if you have fresh parsley you could use that, too.

Hope you enjoy!

April