Looking for a quick and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests without breaking a sweat? Dive into the vibrant world of Southern Caviar, a delightful Black Eyed Pea Appetizer that bursts with flavor and color! This easy-to-make dish combines the earthy goodness of black-eyed peas with the crisp crunch of fresh vegetables, all drizzled in a zesty dressing that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in, this recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game and discover why this Southern classic is a must-try!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the canned black-eyed peas thoroughly under cool running water to remove excess sodium and ensure a fresh taste.
- Finely dice the red bell pepper into small, uniform pieces approximately 1/4 inch in size to ensure even distribution throughout the dish.
- Mince the red onion into very small, consistent pieces to provide a sharp, aromatic flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained black-eyed peas, diced red bell pepper, and minced red onion.
- Chop the fresh parsley leaves finely, discarding any tough stems, and add to the bowl with the other ingredients.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar to create a light, tangy dressing.
- Pour the olive oil and vinegar mixture over the black-eyed pea mixture, gently stirring to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning carefully.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and develop a more complex taste profile.
- Before serving, give the mixture a gentle stir and taste again, adjusting seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing appetizer with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a side dish.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. Fresh parsley can make a significant difference in taste!
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the Southern Caviar to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for added freshness and crunch.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Depending on your preference, you might want to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
- Serve with Style: Present your Southern Caviar in a beautiful bowl and serve with an assortment of tortilla chips, crackers, or even as a topping for grilled meats.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance, making it a perfect choice for busy hosts. Just give it a quick stir before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
