Mediterranean Cowboy Caviar Recipe
This Mediterranean Cowboy Caviar Recipe blends black beans, cannellini beans, cucumbers, olives, and feta in a zesty lemon dressing. It's a fresh, healthy, make-ahead salad or dip perfect for parties, bowls, or a light lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 can cannellini beans or Great Northern, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup diced English cucumber
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes quartered
- ½ red onion finely chopped
- ½ red bell pepper diced
- ½ green bell pepper diced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove finely minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Dice all vegetables into small, uniform pieces for consistent texture.
- Rinse and drain the black beans and cannellini beans thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, combine the beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, olives, parsley, and feta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir gently before serving. Serve chilled as a dip, salad, or topping.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Tastes better after chilling for 1–2 hours.
- Customizable: Swap parsley with dill or mint, or add chickpeas for extra protein.
- Vegan Option: Omit feta or use a plant-based alternative.
- Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.
- Best enjoyed within 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.