Cowboy Caviar

You know those family recipes that get passed around by every grandparent, aunt, uncle, sister-in-law, cousin and neighbor?  THIS is definitely that recipe.

My husband has an amazingly large and wonderful family.  They are all adorable, and quite honestly, the weird thing is, there is not a dysfunctional one in the bunch.  (don't most families sport the obnoxious drunk uncle or a bitter gossiping second cousin or something?)  Well Kevin's family, every last one of them have warm personalities and generous hearts.  Maybe that's one of the reasons the food at the many gatherings is always spectacular.  Lot's of love goes into every recipe.

This fabulous, quick, easy and healthy dip is perfect for any get-together. There is not a Richard's affair where it is not featured.  Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas lunch, New Years Day, Birthday parties... someone in the family makes sure to whip up a batch to share.  The only problem has been that every one of us stands around the bowl inhaling the beany-ambrosia until the bowl is empty or the chips are gone.  Even then, we've been known to polish off the remnants with a spoon.  Cousin Janine requests a bowl of this be ready and waiting for her in the fridge as soon as she returns home from a business trip.  It really is pretty amazing with just a tiny amount of effort required.

1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can black eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1 can white corn, drained
1 jar pimento
1 small or med can sliced Jalapenos, (Embasa brand) chopped
1 bunch green onions, chopped
3 cloves minced fresh garlic
Mix together and set aside.

Boil together:
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
allow to cool then pour over and stir into the other mixture

Avocado and cilantro add a nice touch but aren't entirely necessary.  The sweet, tangy spicy flavor will get you every time and your whole family will be clamoring for the recipe.  I highly recommend taking a few copies of the ingredients with you to appease the masses.