Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, this oven-baked okra is a lighter twist on the Southern classic. Instead of frying, the okra is tossed with smoky paprika, garlic, and melted butter, then roasted at high heat until caramelized on the edges. The result is a savory, slightly crunchy dish that works beautifully as a healthy appetizer, snack, or side. Serve it straight from the oven or pair it with a garlicky yogurt dip for an easy crowd-pleaser.
INGREDIENTS:
1 lb. okra, ends trimmed and sliced into 3/4-inch pieces*
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons butter, melted
METHOD:
Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a large baking pan with parchment and mist lightly with cooking spray.
Place the sliced okra into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
In a small ramekin, combine paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the okra and add the melted butter. Gently stir to mix everything well.
Transfer the okra to a baking sheet and spread okra evenly.
Bake the okra for about 15 minutes at 450°F. or until edges begin to caramelize. Serve warm.
*Alternately, slice the okra lengthwise if serving as appetizer and serve with a garlicky yogurt dip.
