Cowboy Caviar

{ Prep time: 10 mins / Difficulty: Easy / Yields: 8-10 servings }

Ingredients:

1 (10-oz) can whole kernel corn, drained & rinsed
1 (15-oz) black eyed peas, drained & rinsed 

1 (15-oz) can black beans, rinsed & drained & rinsed

1 (15-oz) can petite diced tomatoes, drained

2 green onions, thinly sliced on the diagonal 

1 medium jalepeño, rinsed & diced

1 handful of fresh cilantro, chopped 

1 medium ripe avocado, chopped (optional) 

tortilla chips

1 - 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin 

3 Tbsp fresh lime juice
1/4 tsp sugar (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the first 7 ingredients. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin and lime juice. Pour over all ingredients and mix well. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. 
2. Refrigerate for 2 hours (or preferably overnight). Just before serving, add chopped avocados, if desired. 
3. Serve at room temperature with your choice of tortilla chips.