Fried Okra Salad
A crispy fried okra salad featuring tender fried okra coated in cornmeal, combined with fresh chopped tomato, onion, and bell pepper for a flavorful, crunchy side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the tomato, bell pepper, and onion into medium bite-sized pieces and set aside in a bowl.
- Mix the cornmeal and flour thoroughly and place in a plastic bag.
- Drop the sliced okra into the bag and shake until well coated.
- Fry the coated okra slowly in hot grease until golden brown and done.
- Toss the fried okra with the chopped vegetables and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch. If you're short on time, pre-packaged frozen okra can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before coating. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne to the coating mixture. Serve with a side of ranch or a zesty dressing for an enhanced taste experience.
Serving Suggestions
This fried okra salad makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Heavenly Chili or can serve as a hearty, standalone vegetarian option. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or Widerhold Homemade Sausage alongside the salad. Fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavors even more.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried okra salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the okra in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help retain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the okra soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Okra Salad contains roughly 268 calories, with 7g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this fried okra salad can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the flour and cornmeal used are free from animal products. Additionally, serve it with a vegan dressing to complement the flavors. It's a delightful addition to any vegan recipes collection.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).