Fried Okra Salad with Lemon Dressing

Introduction

History

Fried okra has been a popular dish in Southern cuisine for generations. The crispy texture and unique flavor of okra make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. This recipe takes traditional fried okra and elevates it by serving it on a bed of fresh lettuce with a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to coat the okra in buttermilk before dredging it in the cornmeal mixture to ensure a crispy and flavorful coating.

- Fry the okra in batches to prevent overcrowding in the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.

- Drain the fried okra on a wire rack to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the okra in hot oil ensures a crispy and golden brown coating. Be sure to fry the okra in batches and drain it on a wire rack to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have buttermilk, you can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute. You can also use vegetable oil instead of peanut oil for frying.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lemon dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time when assembling the salad. The fried okra is best served fresh and crispy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the fried okra on top of the salad in a decorative pattern to make it visually appealing. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

This fried okra salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or a light pasta dish. A glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fried okra may lose its crispiness when reheated, so it is best to enjoy this dish fresh.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of this fried okra salad with lemon dressing contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

The main source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the cornmeal coating on the fried okra. One serving of this salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this dish come from the peanut oil used for frying the okra and the olive oil in the lemon dressing. One serving of this salad contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

The main source of protein in this dish comes from the bacon crumbles sprinkled on top of the salad. One serving of this salad contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Okra is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and magnesium. The lemon dressing adds additional vitamin C to the dish. This salad is also rich in antioxidants and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (buttermilk) and pork (bacon), which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, this fried okra salad with lemon dressing is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Fried okra salad with lemon dressing is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the crispy texture of fried okra with the bright and tangy flavors of a lemon dressing. This recipe is perfect for a summer meal or as a side dish for a family dinner. Enjoy the unique flavors and textures of this delicious salad!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Fried Okra Salad with Lemon Dressing. It was a hot summer day, much like today, and I had just finished tending to my garden when I decided to pay a visit to my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins.

Mrs. Jenkins was a wonderful cook, and I always admired her ability to whip up delicious meals with such ease. As soon as I arrived at her doorstep, I could smell the tantalizing aroma of spices and herbs wafting through the air. I knew that I was in for a treat.

As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on sweet tea, Mrs. Jenkins began to tell me about a new recipe she had recently discovered. It was a simple yet delightful dish that combined the crispiness of fried okra with the freshness of a lemon dressing. My mouth watered at the thought of such a unique and flavorful combination.

Mrs. Jenkins graciously offered to teach me how to make the dish, and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, frying, and whisking away. As the sun began to set, we sat down to enjoy our creation, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this Fried Okra Salad with Lemon Dressing countless times, each time adding my own little twist to make it truly my own. But the memory of that day spent with Mrs. Jenkins, bonding over a shared love of cooking and good food, will always hold a special place in my heart.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its unique blend of flavors and textures. It has become a go-to dish for summer gatherings and potlucks, and I take great pride in knowing that I am carrying on the tradition of passing down delicious recipes from generation to generation.

As I sit here in my kitchen, preparing to make another batch of Fried Okra Salad with Lemon Dressing, I can't help but feel grateful for the wonderful people and experiences that have shaped my love of cooking. And I know that as long as I have a kitchen to cook in and loved ones to share my creations with, I will always find joy in the simple act of preparing a delicious meal.

Categories

| American Recipes | Bacon Recipes | Basil Recipes | Bibb Lettuce Recipes | Buttermilk Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Cornmeal Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | Okra Recipes | Onion Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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