Grilled okra is a delightful and nutritious snack that brings out the best in this often-underrated vegetable. With its slightly crunchy texture and unique flavor, okra becomes a perfect candidate for grilling. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-prepare snack that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. Let’s explore how to make the perfect grilled okra snack that will have everyone asking for more.
Nutritional Value
Okra is packed with essential nutrients and offers numerous health benefits. Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 1 cup of grilled okra):
-Calories: 35 kcal
– Protein: 2g
– Fat: 0.5g
– Saturated Fat: 0g
-Carbohydrates 8g
– Fiber: 4g
– Sugar: 2g
– Cholesterol: 0mg
– Sodium: 5mg
– Vitamin C: 35% of the Daily Value (DV)
– Vitamin K: 40% of the DV
– Folate: 15% of the DV
– Magnesium: 8% of the DV
Okra is a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, and folate. It also contains antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that support digestive health and overall well-being.
Ingredients
To create a simple and tasty grilled okra snack, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, washed and dried
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Okra
1. Trim the Okra:
– Cut off the stems from the okra pods, making sure not to cut too deeply into the pods themselves.
2. Dry the Okra:
– Ensure the okra is thoroughly dried to prevent it from becoming slimy during grilling.
– 
Step 2: Season the Okr
1. Mix the Seasoning:
– In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. Coat the Okra:
– Add the okra to the bowl and toss to coat each pod evenly with the seasoning mixture.
Step 3: Grill the Okra
1. Preheat the Grill:
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, preheat it on the stove over medium-high heat.
2. Grill the Okra:
– Place the seasoned okra on the grill in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the okra is tender and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook, as okra can become mushy.
3. Optional Step:
– Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the grilled okra for a fresh, tangy flavor.
Step 4: Serve the Okra
1. Garnish and Serve:
– Transfer the grilled okra to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately. This snack can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to complement other grilled items.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen okra for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen okra, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and grilling to avoid excess moisture.
1. How do I prevent okra from becoming slimy?
Drying the okra thoroughly before seasoning and grilling helps reduce its sliminess. Additionally, grilling at high heat and for a short duration keeps the texture crisp.
1. Can I add other seasonings to the okra?
Absolutely Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as cumin, chili powder, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
1. What other dipping sauces pair well with grilled okra?
Grilled okra pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or a simple lemon aioli.
1. Can I cook this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can roast the okra in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the okra is tender and slightly crispy.
### Conclusion
This simple grilled okra snack recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious vegetable. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a flavorful dish that is sure to impress. Whether served as a snack or a side dish, grilled okra brings a delightful crunch and taste to your table. Enjoy the ease and satisfaction of this nutritious recipe, and savor the fresh, smoky flavors of perfectly grilled okra.