Step 1: Prepare the Beans and Corn

Drain and rinse the black beans and black-eyed peas thoroughly in a colander. This removes excess sodium and improves texture. If using frozen corn, place it in a colander and run warm water over it to thaw, then drain well. Pat everything dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture from your cowgirl caviar recipe.

Step 2: Dice the Vegetables

On a cutting board, dice the red and green bell peppers into small, uniform pieces about 1/4-inch in size. Quarter the cherry tomatoes, or dice Roma tomatoes if using. Finely dice the red onion. If using jalapeño, remove seeds and membranes for less heat, then mince finely. Chop the fresh cilantro.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, both bell peppers, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro. Gently toss to distribute everything evenly throughout your cowgirl caviar recipe mixture.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar with a lid, combine olive oil, fresh lime juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. If using honey or agave for a touch of sweetness, add it now. Whisk vigorously until well combined, or seal the jar and shake until emulsified.

Step 5: Combine Dressing with Salad

Pour the dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Using a large spoon, gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be gentle to avoid mashing the beans or vegetables.

Step 6: Chill and Marinate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the cowgirl caviar recipe mixture to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours. This chilling time allows flavors to meld beautifully. Stir once or twice during chilling if possible.

Step 7: Add Avocado Before Serving

Just before serving, dice the avocados and gently fold them into the cowgirl caviar recipe. Adding avocado at the last minute prevents browning and maintains the best texture and color.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust

Give your cowgirl caviar recipe a final taste test. Adjust seasoning if needed by adding more lime juice for tang, salt for savoriness, or a pinch of cumin for warmth.

Step 9: Serve

Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with sturdy tortilla chips for dipping. The cowgirl caviar recipe can also be served as a side salad, spooned over grilled chicken or fish, or used as a taco filling.