Many people, especially in the South, serve black-eyed peas on New Years for good luck during the coming year. There are, of course, dozens of good recipes for soups, stews, salads, etc. using black-eyed peas, so you don't have to serve the same one every year. The following New Year's Black-eyed Pea Dip is a bit different, and can be served at a New Year's party or as an appetizer on New Year's day. It is easy, can be made ahead, if necessary, and is quite healthy as well as addicting. It can also be served warm or at room temperature.

Although the dip is best served with cornbread crackers, it's also good with Fritos Scoops, regular crackers, or even tortilla chips. New Year's Black-eyed Pea Dip is a delicious appetizer and is suitable for taking to a pot luck or family gathering. It's also perfect for serving on New Year's Eve to bring in the new year with good luck.

24 Servings

1 teaspoon butter
1 cup diced ham
2 15 oz. can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
1 1/2 cups water

1 large tomato, cored and diced
2 to 4 fresh jalapeno peppers, cored, seeded, and finely chopped
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
2 sliced green onions
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil

1. Melt the butter in a skillet and add the ham; stir the ham over medium heat until the pieces begin to brown.
2. Add the black-eyed peas, along with the salt and pepper.
3. Pour the water over the pea mixture, stir well, and bring to a boil.
4. Let the mixture cook, 7-10 minutes, or until the water has evaporated. During cooking, use a potato masher to mash most of the beans and stir frequently.
5. Meanwhile mix the remaining ingredients in a serving bowl.
6. When the beans and ham have cooked, pour into the serving bowl mix. Serve warm or at room temperature with cornbread crackers.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 50 Calories from Fat 18
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 35% Protein 23% Carb. 42%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 2 g
Saturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 3 mg
Sodium 246 mg
Total Carbohydrate 5 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 3 g

Vitamin A 10% Vitamin C 23% Calcium 0% Iron 4%