From "The Infinite Feast: How to Host the Ones You Love—Recipes from the Big Easy . . . and Beyond" by Brian Theis, 2020 Click here for more on my new cookbook!
Makes 16 Servings
Perfect for good luck in the New Year, or anytime! About as delicious as a salad can be. Black-eyed peas with tomatoes represent prosperity and health. Serve with cornbread which represents gold. (Bake up a quick pan of Belle Reve Cornbread from the Comfort Food and Thanksgiving-themed sections on this site!) In the South, cabbage or collards are frequently part of the lucky menu.
"In With the New" Black-Eyed Pea Salad
aka Texas Caviar
12 scallions, white and green parts, sliced thin
1 red onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/3 cup chopped cilantro
3 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
2 teaspoons freshly ground pepper
1 can (10 ounces) Ro-Tel tomatoes with green chilis, drained
1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
2 cans (15.5 ounces each) blackeyed peas, drained
In large bowl, combine scallions, red onion, green pepper, chili powder, cumin, cilantro, vinegar, black pepper, stir together thoroughly. Add Ro-Tel tomatoes, corn, blackeyed peas, stir together thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.