3 (15 oz) cans drained and rinsed black-eyed peas (if using dried peas, cook first. Remember that they will double or triple in bulk and it takes 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes to precook. Black eyed peas do not need to be presoaked)
1 (15 oz) can kernel corn
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 large bell pepper, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup sliced jalapeno peppers (these may be omitted for a milder caviar)
1 cup sliced black olives
2 teaspoons minced garlic
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (if using dried herbs, use 1/8 cup)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 to 1 cup (8 oz bottle) Italian dressing (add according to taste)
Drain and rinse black-eyed peas. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix together gently. Chill for two hours or longer, may be made a day or two ahead of time. Serve with tortilla chips. This is great for New Year's Day parties.