Southern Okra and Tomatoes Recipe (Easy 30-Minute Side Dish!)

This Okra and Tomatoes recipe is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the natural goodness of fresh vegetables with simple seasonings. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a vegan, gluten-free option that can be served as a main or side dish. Ready in just 15 minutes, this quick and easy recipe will become a go-to for anyone who enjoys tender, flavorful vegetables in a wholesome meal.

Why You’ll Love Okra And Tomatoes

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy days, taking just 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You can enjoy a healthy, homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, this dish is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s a wholesome vegan option that’s also gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Versatile: Whether served as a side dish, a vegan main course, or over rice, Okra and Tomatoes can be customized to suit any meal. You can even add sausage or bacon for a heartier option.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tender okra, juicy tomatoes, and sautéed onions and peppers creates a deliciously seasoned dish. The oregano, salt, and black pepper enhance the natural flavors, making each bite irresistible.
• Adaptable: You can easily adjust the seasoning to your taste or add a bit of heat with red pepper flakes or cayenne. Plus, using frozen okra and canned tomatoes works just as well for a quicker version!

Ingredients For Okra And Tomatoes

• Fresh Okra: The star of the dish, providing a tender texture and mild flavor. You can use frozen okra as a convenient alternative.
• Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet and slightly crunchy texture to complement the other vegetables.
• Onion: Provides a rich, savory base that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes for a juicy, flavorful component, or canned tomatoes if you’re short on time.
• Garlic: Adds a burst of aromatic flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and bring all the flavors together.
• Salt, Black Pepper, and Oregano: Simple yet effective seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the vegetables.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Okra And Tomatoes

• Large Non-stick Frying Pan: Ideal for sautéing the vegetables and ensuring even cooking without sticking.
• Knife: To slice the okra, bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes with precision.
• Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping all the fresh vegetables.
• Measuring Spoons: Helpful for accurately measuring out the olive oil and seasonings.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the vegetables as they cook to ensure even distribution of flavors.

How To Make Okra And Tomatoes

• Heat olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over high heat.
• Slice the okra into round pieces and add it to the hot pan. Reduce heat to medium-high.
• While the okra is cooking, slice the bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes.
• Add the bell pepper and onion to the pan and sauté until softened.
• Stir in the chopped tomatoes and minced garlic, mixing well to combine.
• Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste.
• Cook the vegetables for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently until they are tender.
• Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Okra and Tomatoes over a bed of rice for a satisfying vegan main dish.
• Pair it with grilled chicken breast or baked lemon sole for a balanced, nutritious meal.
• Use it as a side dish for a low-carb meal by enjoying it alongside a protein of your choice.
• Add Italian sausage or turkey bacon during cooking for a heartier version of the dish.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Tips For Success

• Choose Fresh Okra: When using fresh okra, make sure it’s firm and vibrant green for the best results. If fresh okra isn’t available, frozen okra works well and saves time on preparation.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the vegetables, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they sauté properly without steaming. This will help them cook evenly and develop a nice texture.
• Control the Heat: Start by heating the pan on high to get a good sizzle when you first add the okra. Once the vegetables start cooking, lower the heat to medium-high to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Stir Frequently: Be sure to stir the vegetables every minute while cooking to avoid sticking and to make sure the flavors are well-distributed throughout the dish.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the dish as you cook and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add more salt, pepper, or oregano based on your desired flavor intensity.
• Experiment with Spice: If you enjoy spicier dishes, try adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give the dish a little heat. You can add these spices at any stage of the cooking process.
• Add Protein for a Heartier Dish: If you want to turn this into a more filling main course, consider adding sausage, bacon, or even cooked beans. Sauté these along with the vegetables for a satisfying and hearty meal.
• Serving and Storage: Okra and Tomatoes can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Variations And Substitutions

• Spicy Variation: If you like your dishes with a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the okra and tomatoes while they cook. This will give the dish a nice spicy kick and complement the other flavors.
• Frozen and Canned Option: If you don’t have fresh ingredients on hand, you can easily substitute frozen okra and canned tomatoes. This variation cuts down on prep time while still delivering a delicious dish. Simply add the frozen okra directly to the pan and use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh.
• Protein Addition: To make the dish more filling, add some cooked sausage, bacon, or even tofu. Fry the sausage or bacon at the beginning, then sauté the vegetables in the rendered fat for extra flavor. If using tofu, cook it with the veggies for a hearty, protein-rich option.
• Low-Sodium Version: For those watching their sodium intake, you can reduce the amount of salt or use a salt substitute. The natural flavors of the vegetables and the seasoning from the oregano will still make the dish flavorful without needing much salt.
• Herb Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of oregano or want to switch things up, try using thyme or basil instead. These herbs add a different but equally delicious flavor to the dish, keeping it fresh and exciting.
• Add Beans for More Fiber: For an extra boost of fiber and protein, you can add cooked beans such as black beans or chickpeas to the dish. This turns the okra and tomatoes into a more substantial main course that’s perfect for a vegan or vegetarian meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the dish even tastier the next day.
• Freezing: If you’d like to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the okra and tomatoes in a frying pan over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Pro Tip: If the dish seems a bit dry after reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to help refresh the texture and bring back some of the moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen okra and canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can! Frozen okra and canned tomatoes work just as well as fresh ones, making this dish convenient if you don’t have fresh ingredients on hand. Just be sure to add the frozen okra straight to the pan and use diced canned tomatoes for the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent okra from becoming slimy?

The key to avoiding slimy okra is to cook it at a high heat and avoid over-stirring. By sautéing it in a hot pan and reducing the amount of moisture in the pan, you can enjoy okra without the undesirable slimy texture.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also reheats very well, so it’s a great option for meal prep. Just reheat it in a pan or microwave when ready to serve.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! To add some heat to the dish, you can sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper while cooking. Adjust the amount to your personal taste.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this Okra and Tomatoes recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. You can serve it as a side dish or enjoy it on its own for a light and healthy meal.

Other Easy Okra Recipes

Pan-Fried Fresh Okra Recipe: This simple pan-fried okra recipe delivers perfectly crispy and tender okra with minimal ingredients and effort.

Frozen Okra in the Instant Pot: Instant Pot frozen okra is a quick and easy way to cook this nutritious vegetable to tender perfection without the hassle.

Crispy Air Fryer Breaded Frozen Okra: Enjoy deliciously crispy breaded frozen okra made in the air fryer for a quick and healthier alternative to deep frying.

Healthy Air Fryer Okra Recipe Without Breading: This healthy air fryer okra recipe delivers all the flavor and texture without the need for breading or excess oil.

Other Easy Tomato Recipes

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Low Carb Pesto Chicken Casserole with Cheese: This cheesy, low carb pesto chicken casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for keto and low-carb diets.

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