Roasted Okra Recipe

Active Time:

5 mins

Roast Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

25 mins

Servings:

4

If it's summer in the South, it's the perfect time to give roasted okra a chance. Okra is one of the region's most beloved vegetables. While some say this seedy summertime staple can be slimy, we think it's delicious cooked in gumbos, stewed with tomatoes, or skillet roasted with shrimp.

Okra can be intimidating; but we urge you to embrace this vegetable. When preparing, it's important to thoroughly wash and dry before cooking to further decrease the slime quotient. The smaller the okra pod, the less slime you will encounter. Cutting the okra in half lengthwise can also cut down on slime.

This simple roasted recipe is delicious, and just takes a short amount of hands-on prep time. The results are deliciously tender okra with crispy charred edges. Our Test Kitchen noted that the smoked paprika is the prominent flavor, but the additional spices—garlic, cumin, cayenne powder—round it out perfectly. Serve them as a side to garlicky shrimp or let guests enjoy them one by one.

Learn how to roast okra, and you'll soon have your new favorite with this favorite Southern vegetable.

Ingredients for Roasted Okra

Fresh okra, olive oil, and seasonings come together for an easy, satisfying side dish. To make roasted okra, you'll need:

Fresh okra: The star of the dish, okra roasts up tender in the middle and crisp on the exterior.
Olive oil: Coats the okra to help it crisp up while roasting.
Smoked paprika: For a smoky, sweet flavor and touch of color.
Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note to the dish.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
Garlic powder: Infuses a savory kick of garlic flavor into the okra.
Cayenne pepper: For a touch of heat.

Southern Living Roasted Okra ingredients — ï»¿Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox

How To Make Roasted Okra

Roasting okra is a hands-off method with little to no cleanup. It might just become your new favorite way to prepare this beloved vegetable. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

Step 1. Prepare oven: Preheat oven to 425°F.
Step 2. Combine ingredients: Toss together all ingredients to combine. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Step 3. Roast okra: Roast until okra is tender and browned, 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Simple Roasted Okra Variations

To mix up the flavor of this roasted okra, consider these variations:

Herbs and citrus: Lemon zest or chopped parsley, cilantro, thyme, and other fresh herbs can add a bright freshness to the okra after roasting.
Cheese: Sprinkle the roasted okra with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano in the last few minutes of cooking for a toasty, cheesy flavor.
Spices: Swap the spices called for with any you prefer for your own unique spice blend.
Heat: Chili flakes or hot sauce can provide additional heat.

Our Tips for the Best Roasted Okra

For the best roasted okra, keep these tips in mind:

Choose fresh okra: Pods should be firm and vibrant green for best results.
Wash and dry thoroughly before using: The okra should be dried to avoid excess moisture that can cause them to steam instead of crisp in the oven.
Uniform sizing: For consistent cooking, make sure the okra is cut into uniform pieces.
Hot oven: Roast the okra at 425°F, only opening the oven to quickly toss the okra once during cooking, for the best texture.
Coat with oil: To help the okra brown and crisp evenly.
Serve immediately: For the best texture.

What To Serve With Simple Roasted Okra

Pair roasted okra with fried chicken, fried catfish, tomato pie, mac and cheese, smoked ribs, brisket, cornbread, biscuits and other classic Southern sides. Consider serving with aioli, rémoulade, tzatziki, or other types of dipping sauces for extra flavor.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Roasted Okra

Store leftover roasted okra in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or in a skillet on the stovetop until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it could lead to a loss in texture. Freshen leftovers by sprinkling with lemon juice and seasoning to taste before serving.

More Okra Recipes You'll Love

A beloved Southern staple, okra shines in these classic dishes:

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.

Ingredients

1 lb. fresh okra, trimmed and halved lengthwise
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. smoked paprika
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

Directions

Prepare oven:

Preheat oven to 425°F.
Combine ingredients:

Toss together all ingredients in a large bowl until combined.

Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Spread mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet.

Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Roast okra:

Roast in preheated oven until okra is tender and browned, 20 to 25 minutes, stirring mixture halfway through cook time. Serve.

Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox