Let’s talk about Carolina Caviar. This isn’t your typical caviar—there’s no fish involved, and you don’t need a fancy dinner party to enjoy it. Carolina Caviar, also known as Cowboy Caviar, Texas Caviar, or Georgia Caviar, is a colorful, zesty dish that works as a dip, salad, or side. It’s one of those recipes that manages to be healthy, easy to make, and completely addictive all at the same time.

Picture this: a bowl brimming with tender conch peas (or black-eyed peas), hearty black beans, sweet corn, crunchy bell peppers, and fresh cilantro. All of that goodness is tossed in a tangy Italian-inspired dressing that’s so flavorful you’ll find yourself scooping it straight out of the bowl with a tortilla chip.

I first discovered Carolina Caviar at a potluck, and let me tell you—it was love at first bite. Every bite was a medley of textures and flavors, and I couldn’t stop asking for the recipe. Since then, it’s become a regular at family gatherings, barbecues, and even as a quick weeknight snack. The best part? It’s endlessly versatile. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, make it ahead of time, and serve it in so many ways. Let’s dive in and see why this dish is about to become your new favorite too.

Why You’ll Love This Carolina Caviar Recipe Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for Carolina Caviar.

It’s ridiculously easy to make: With a few cans of beans, fresh veggies, and a quick homemade dressing, you can have this dish ready in no time.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a healthy snack, or need a last-minute side dish, this recipe has your back.
Packed with flavor: The tangy dressing ties everything together, while the combination of beans, corn, and veggies creates a satisfying mix of sweet, savory, and zesty.
Nutritious and wholesome: With plant-based protein from the beans, fiber from the veggies, and heart-healthy olive oil in the dressing, this dish is as good for you as it tastes.
Great for meal prep: The flavors only get better as it sits, making it the perfect make-ahead recipe.

If you’re a fan of dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious, Carolina Caviar is going to check every box. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar with minimal effort.

Preparation Time and Servings of the Carolina Caviar Recipe

Total Time: 15 minutes (plus optional chilling time)
Servings: 6-8 people as an appetizer or side dish
Calories per Serving: Approximately 200 calories

Ingredients of the Carolina Caviar Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this vibrant and flavorful dish:

Main Ingredients:

1 cup dried conch peas (or substitute black-eyed peas)
1 (15.5 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15.25 oz) can sweet corn, drained (or 1 cup fresh corn kernels)
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ medium red onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, minced (adjust for heat level)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:

⅔ cup Italian salad dressing (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, for balance)

To Serve:

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Tortilla chips for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Conch Peas (If Using Dried Peas)
If you’re starting with dried conch peas, soak them in water overnight. The next day, drain the peas and boil them in salted water for about 1 hour or until tender. Once cooked, drain and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the peas are cooking (or if you’re using canned beans), chop up your veggies. Dice the red bell pepper and finely chop the red onion, garlic, and jalapeño. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeño before chopping.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the Italian dressing, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and sugar. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The dressing should be tangy, slightly sweet, and bold.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked conch peas, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, red onion, garlic, jalapeño, and fresh cilantro. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together until well coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
You can serve the Carolina Caviar right away, but for the best flavor, let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting time allows the dressing to soak into the beans and vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor. Serve with tortilla chips for scooping, or use it as a topping for grilled chicken, tacos, or salad.

Additional Tips for Success

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time.
Use Fresh Corn When Possible: If corn is in season, fresh kernels will elevate the flavor and texture. Simply blanch the corn for a minute or two and cut the kernels off the cob.
Customize the Heat Level: If you love spice, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add diced Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. For a milder version, omit the jalapeño entirely.
Drain the Beans Well: Excess liquid from the beans can water down the dressing, so be sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly.
Balance the Flavors: If the dressing tastes too tangy, a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey can help balance it out.

How to Serve Carolina Caviar Recipe

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Here are a few serving ideas to inspire you:

As a Dip: Serve with tortilla chips or pita chips for an easy appetizer.
On Tacos: Use it as a fresh topping for tacos, burrito bowls, or quesadillas.
With Grilled Meats: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a vibrant side dish.
As a Salad: Serve it over a bed of greens for a hearty, bean-packed salad.
With Rice: Spoon it over cooked rice or quinoa for a quick and healthy meal.

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Packed: Add diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers for an extra pop of freshness and color.
Sweet and Tangy: Add ½ tablespoon of honey to the dressing for a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy flavors.
Herb Swap: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh parsley or basil instead.
Gluten-Free: Make sure to use a gluten-free Italian dressing if serving this to someone with dietary restrictions.
Protein Boost: Add cooked and diced chicken or shrimp for a heartier version.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier over time. However, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh veggies and dressing.

To reintroduce some freshness after a couple of days in the fridge, stir in a handful of freshly chopped cilantro or diced tomatoes before serving again.

Final Thoughts

Carolina Caviar is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a party, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving a flavorful snack, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your favorite chips, whip up a batch, and enjoy every crunchy, tangy, satisfying bite. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out—I’d love to see your creations!

Carolina Caviar Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Appetizer

Author: Sarah Lawson
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Carolina Caviar is a fresh, flavorful bean and vegetable dip tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. This easy, versatile recipe is perfect as a party appetizer, a healthy snack, or a colorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried conch peas (or black-eyed peas)
- 1 (15.5 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15.25 oz) can sweet corn, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ medium red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
- ⅔ cup Italian salad dressing
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp granulated sugar

Instructions

Cook conch peas: Soak overnight, then boil in salted water for 1 hour until tender. Drain and cool.
Prepare veggies: Dice bell pepper, chop onion, mince garlic and jalapeño.
Make the dressing: Whisk Italian dressing, vinegar, olive oil, and sugar.
Combine ingredients: Mix beans, veggies, and dressing in a bowl. Toss to coat.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the mixture marinate overnight.
Substitute fresh corn for canned when in season.
Adjust jalapeño for desired spice level.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour (for dried peas)
Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
Method: No Cook (if using canned beans)
Cuisine: American