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Cowboy Caviar Couscous Salad

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This Cowboy Caviar Couscous Salad is a fresh, modern upgrade to the beloved Southern-inspired dish. Packed with black beans, black-eyed peas, crisp bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and sweet corn, it’s made heartier with pearl couscous and tied together with a zesty lime and cumin vinaigrette. Every bite offers a satisfying mix of textures and bright, punchy flavor. Whether served chilled as a side for grilled meats or enjoyed on its own for lunch, it’s a crowd-pleasing salad that travels well and gets even better the next day. It’s also easy to make ahead, making it perfect for Memorial Day gatherings, picnics, or weekly meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

1 cup pearl (Israeli) couscous

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

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

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 avocado, diced (add right before serving)

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 teaspoon honey or agave

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Couscous
    Bring 1¼ cups of water to a boil. Add pearl couscous and a pinch of salt. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool completely.

  2. Prepare the Dressing
    In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime juice, honey, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

  3. Combine the Ingredients
    In a large bowl, combine the cooled couscous, black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, bell peppers, onion, tomatoes, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro.

  4. Toss & Chill
    Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).

  5. Add Avocado Before Serving
    Right before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado to keep it fresh and green.

  6. Garnish (Optional)
    Top with more chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, or a squeeze of lime.

Notes

Recipe Notes

  • Make Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together. It’s ideal for prepping the night before a party or picnic.
  • Serving Tip: Serve chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great topping for grilled chicken, fish, or even spooned into lettuce wraps.
  • Add a Crunch: For extra texture, add crushed tortilla chips or roasted pepitas just before serving.
  • Couscous Swap: Don’t have pearl couscous? Try quinoa, orzo, or skip the grain entirely for a more traditional cowboy caviar.
  • Avocado Caution: Add the avocado last to keep it from browning or getting mushy during storage.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes! Just substitute the pearl couscous with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or omit it entirely.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Without avocado, it will keep for 3–4 days in an airtight container. If you add avocado, consume within 24–48 hours for best freshness.

Q: Can I use frozen corn?
A: Absolutely. Just thaw and drain it well before mixing it in.

Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes, as long as you use agave instead of honey and skip the cotija cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Definitely. Add an extra jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.

🌽 Interesting Facts & Tips

  • Why It’s Called Cowboy Caviar: The name is playful — it originated in Texas and mimics the look of traditional caviar but with affordable, everyday ingredients.
  • Great for Potlucks: This salad holds up without wilting or getting soggy, making it a smart choice for events where food sits out for a while.
  • Full of Nutrients: Loaded with fiber, plant-based protein, healthy fats, and vitamins from the rainbow of veggies.
  • Meal Prep Hero: Double the batch, skip the avocado until you’re ready to eat, and enjoy it for easy lunches all week.

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Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://joyistalife.com/recipe/cowboy-caviar-couscous-salad/