Crispy-edged, tender roasted okra made with just a handful of ingredients—no slime, no fuss. This quick and easy veggie side is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and totally addictive.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2–3 servings
Calories: ~90 kcal per serving
Dietary Tags: Vegan • Gluten-Free • Low-Carb • Whole30
🛒 Ingredients
18 fresh okra pods, sliced into ⅓-inch rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
Optional Add-In:
Fresh tomatoes, chopped (toss in before roasting for extra flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions
Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Prep the Okra: Spread sliced okra in a single layer on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
Roast: Bake for 10–15 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the okra is lightly browned and tender.
Serve: Enjoy hot out of the oven as a snack, side dish, or topping for grain bowls or salads.
📝 Notes
Roasting okra at high heat helps eliminate its natural sliminess.
Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—spread the pieces out to crisp, not steam.
Add chopped fresh tomatoes for a juicy, tangy twist.
🔥 A Fast, Flavorful Veggie Side
Whether you love okra or are still on the fence, this recipe is a game changer. Roasting brings out its earthy flavor and gives it a satisfying texture. It’s quick, simple, and endlessly adaptable.
📸 Step-by-Step Guide
🌿 Step 1: Slice and Prep
Slice okra into ⅓-inch rounds. Spread them evenly on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
🫒 Step 2: Season and Toss
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Optional: Add chopped tomatoes for more flavor.
🔥 Step 3: Roast at High Heat
Roast at 425°F for 10–15 minutes. Stir once halfway through for even browning.
🍽 Step 4: Serve
Serve warm as a side dish, toss onto a grain bowl, or enjoy as a healthy snack.
🧂 Ingredient Tips & Substitutions
Ingredient Highlights
Okra: Fresh, firm okra works best—avoid limp or overripe pods.
Olive Oil: Helps okra crisp and adds a subtle richness.
Kosher Salt & Pepper: Classic seasoning—feel free to add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for heat.
Substitutions
No olive oil? Use avocado oil or melted ghee.
Want it spicier? Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce after roasting.
No fresh okra? Frozen okra works in a pinch—just thaw and pat dry thoroughly before roasting.
🍽 Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Variations
🌶 Spicy Okra: Add ½ tsp cayenne or smoked paprika before roasting.
🧄 Garlic Okra: Add ½ tsp garlic powder with the salt and pepper.
🍅 Okra & Tomato Roast: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes or chopped fresh ones.
How to Serve
As a side with grilled meats or curry
Tossed on top of a rice or quinoa bowl
Mixed into a warm salad or veggie medley
On its own with a squeeze of lemon as a snack
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a hot skillet or oven to retain crispiness—avoid microwaving, which can make it soft.
Make-Ahead
You can slice and season the okra in advance. Roast just before serving for best texture.
📊 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 90 kcal
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Allergens: None
Dietary Tags: Vegan • Gluten-Free • Whole30 • Low-Carb
❓ FAQ
Q: How do I prevent slimy okra?
A: Roasting at high heat helps eliminate slime. Avoid overcrowding the pan and don’t cover the okra while cooking.
Q: Can I use frozen okra?
A: Yes—thaw and pat dry thoroughly before roasting. Expect a slightly different texture, but still tasty.
Q: Can I roast whole okra pods instead of slicing?
A: Absolutely. Just toss them in oil and seasoning and add a few extra minutes to the roasting time.
Q: Can I add other veggies?
A: Yes! Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or red onion slices roast beautifully with okra.
💚 A Southern Staple, Reinvented
This roasted okra is proof that simple ingredients can be bold in flavor. If you think you don’t like okra—try it this way. It’s crispy, savory, and surprisingly addictive.
📣 Made This Recipe?
I’d love to see how you enjoy your roasted okra! Tag @YourHandle on Instagram or comment below with your favorite way to flavor it. Bonus points if you try it with tomatoes! 🍅