Trader Joe’s has done it once again. The store has taken a relatively simple snack combination—one that typically only crosses my mind when it’s served at parties or restaurants, chips and dip—and turned it into something I now find myself craving on the regular. Honestly, getting me hooked on new versions of familiar recipes is exactly what Trader Joe’s does best, and this time, they’ve perfected a bold, flavor-packed dip that I can’t seem to get enough of. You might’ve seen this product or recipe trending on social media in recent years, but in case you haven’t had the pleasure, it’s time you were  introduced to Trader Joe’s Cowboy Caviar.

What Is Cowboy Caviar?

Also known as Texas Caviar, this hearty and colorful dip is essentially a saucy bean salad made with black beans or black-eyed peas, corn, onions, red bell peppers, jalapenos, lime juice and spices (no actual caviar involved). This Southwestern dish was created in the 1940s by chef Helen Corbitt as a playful twist on black-eyed peas, a Southern symbol of good luck. You’ll find countless variations, but no matter how you toss it, Cowboy Caviar always seems to be a hit at gatherings. Serve it at your next potluck, barbecue, or gameday watch party, and wait for the compliments to roll in.

Why I Love Trader Joe’s Cowboy Caviar

Not to be dramatic, but this 13-ounce jar left me utterly blown away the first time I tried it. Located next to the chips and salsa in the snack aisle, its flavors are incredibly well-balanced. Smokey, tangy, and subtly sweet—the overall flavor somehow captures the essence of a warm, breezy evening on the beach. But be warned: it also has some heat. Trader Joe’s Cowboy Caviar is made with chipotles in adobo sauce, so it packs a medium-heat kick that tends to creep up on you. I’ve found you can easily balance the heat by enjoying it with starches like tortilla chips or rice. 

Besides the flavor, what I love most about this dip is how versatile it is. It’s delicious spooned straight from the jar, but it can also be added to practically anything. It’s shelf-stable, so I always keep a jar on hand for last-minute snacks or easy meal upgrades.

Ways To Use Trader Joe’s Cowboy Caviar

• Enjoy it with chips: Simple, but effective. Pour the Cowboy Caviar into a bowl and serve it alongside Trader Joe’s Organic Elote Corn Chip Dippers for a wholesome and satisfying party appetizer or afternoon snack. 
• Jazz up your side dishes: My favorite way to use this dip is as a way to brighten up almost any side dish you can think of. It works wonders in a pot of quinoa or rice, and you can also mix it with roasted vegetables and pasta salad.
• Make it a topping: For your next family taco night, try a spoonful or two of Cowboy Caviar on your tacos, quesadillas, or even nachos. It’s also a game-changing topping for baked sweet potatoes, grilled chicken or fish, and scrambled eggs. In other words, the opportunities are practically endless.