Okra Salad
Okra Salad Recipe - Ingredients: Okra, Tomato, Celery, Salt, Black Pepper, Green Pepper, Margarine
Introduction
Okra salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. This salad is made with fresh okra, tomatoes, celery, and green pepper, all tossed in a flavorful olive oil dressing. It is a great way to enjoy the unique taste and texture of okra in a simple and healthy dish.
History
Okra salad has its origins in the Mediterranean region, where okra is a popular vegetable in many traditional dishes. Okra has been cultivated for centuries and is known for its slimy texture when cooked. However, when prepared properly, okra can be a delicious and versatile ingredient in salads, stews, and soups.
Ingredients
- 0.5 lb okra (225 g)
- 1 firm tomato (diced)
- 1 stick celery (chopped)
- 0.5 tsp salt (2 ml)
- 0.5 tsp black pepper (2 ml)
- 1 small green pepper (chopped)
- 1 tbsp margarine or olive oil (15 ml)
How to prepare
- In a saucepan, bring okras to a boil.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the other vegetables.
- Melt the margarine.
- Add the okra, celery, tomato, and sweet pepper.
- Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Serve hot.
- This dish can be served as an accompaniment to the main course.
Variations
- Add cooked chickpeas or black beans for extra protein.
- Mix in some cooked quinoa or couscous for a heartier salad.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To reduce the sliminess of okra, you can soak it in vinegar or lemon juice before cooking.
- Be sure to cook the okra until it is tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.
- You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables or herbs, such as cucumbers, parsley, or mint.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the okra salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Enjoy it as a light lunch with a piece of crusty bread.
- Add some crumbled feta cheese or olives for extra flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Be sure to season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any type of oil in place of olive oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil.
- Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or red onions.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the okra salad in a large bowl or on a platter for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair the okra salad with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
- Serve with grilled shrimp or kebabs for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few minutes or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- Approximately 150 calories per serving
Carbohydrates
- Okra: 7g per serving
- Tomato: 4g per serving
- Celery: 1g per serving
- Green pepper: 2g per serving
Fats
- Olive oil: 14g per serving
Proteins
- Okra: 2g per serving
- Celery: 1g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Okra is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
- Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
- Celery is high in vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.
- Green peppers are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin B6.
Alergens
This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.
Summary
This okra salad is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.
Summary
Okra salad is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. This salad is packed with fresh vegetables and tossed in a flavorful olive oil dressing. It is a great way to enjoy the unique taste and texture of okra in a refreshing dish.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah in her cozy little kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the most enticing aroma - a delicious blend of spices and herbs that seemed to dance in the air.
Curious, I asked Sarah what she was cooking, and she smiled mischievously before revealing her secret: Okra Salad. I had never heard of such a dish before, but as she began to explain the ingredients and the process of making it, I knew I had to learn more.
Sarah's recipe for Okra Salad was unlike anything I had ever tasted. It was a delightful mix of fresh okra, tomatoes, onions, and a medley of herbs and spices that complemented each other perfectly. The okra was tender yet still had a slight crunch, and the flavors were so vibrant and refreshing.
As I watched Sarah work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be inspired. I wanted to learn how to make this incredible dish for myself, so I asked her if she would be willing to teach me. She agreed, and over the next few hours, she patiently guided me through each step of the process, sharing her tips and tricks along the way.
I learned that the key to making the perfect Okra Salad lies in the preparation of the okra itself. Sarah showed me how to wash and dry the okra thoroughly, then trim off the ends and slice it into thin rounds. She explained that this would help the okra retain its shape and texture during cooking.
Next, she taught me how to sauté the okra in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil until it was golden brown and slightly crispy. This step was crucial for bringing out the natural sweetness of the okra and adding a depth of flavor to the dish.
Once the okra was cooked to perfection, Sarah added in diced tomatoes, onions, and a generous handful of fresh herbs. She explained that the key to a delicious Okra Salad is to use the best quality ingredients available, as they would elevate the dish to a whole new level.
As the salad came together, I couldn't wait to taste the final result. Sarah plated it up beautifully, garnishing it with a sprinkle of lemon zest and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The colors were vibrant, the aromas were intoxicating, and the flavors were out of this world.
With a sense of pride and accomplishment, I took my first bite of the Okra Salad. It was a symphony of flavors - tangy, sweet, and savory all at once. The okra was perfectly cooked, the tomatoes were juicy and bursting with flavor, and the herbs added a fresh and aromatic touch that tied everything together.
I couldn't believe that I had made something so delicious and satisfying. Thanks to Sarah's guidance and expertise, I had learned how to make a truly remarkable dish that would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.
From that day on, Okra Salad became a beloved recipe in my repertoire. Whenever I make it, I think back to that hot summer day in Sarah's kitchen and the magical experience of learning something new and exciting. I am forever grateful to her for sharing her knowledge and passion for cooking with me, and for inspiring me to explore the endless possibilities of the culinary world.
Categories
| Celery Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Okra Recipes | Tomato Recipes |