Best Texas Caviar Black Bean (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Legumes and Corn

01 - 400 g canned black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
02 - 400 g canned black beans, drained and rinsed
03 - 300 g canned sweet corn, drained

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

04 - 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 small red onion, diced
07 - 1–2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely diced
08 - 15 g fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
09 - 1 ripe avocado, diced (optional, added before serving)

→ Dressing

10 - 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 45 ml freshly squeezed lime juice
12 - 20 ml red wine vinegar
13 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
14 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
15 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
16 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
17 - 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Drain and rinse the black eyed peas, black beans, and sweet corn thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add the diced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño peppers, and chopped cilantro.
03 - Incorporate the drained black eyed peas, black beans, and corn into the bowl with the vegetables. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, sugar, chili powder, ground cumin, and salt until emulsified.
05 - Pour the dressing over the mixed beans and vegetables. Toss gently to ensure all components are well coated.
06 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavours to meld and intensify.
07 - Fold in diced avocado just before serving, if using. Serve chilled with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a fresh side dish.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - For optimal texture, add avocado immediately prior to serving to prevent oxidation.
02 - Allowing the salad to marinate in the refrigerator enhances the depth of flavour.