Microwave Okra Creole
A quick and flavorful Southern-inspired dish featuring tender okra simmered with tomatoes and seasoned with Worcestershire and hot sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting side, it combines savory, tangy, and spicy notes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole dish, heat the sliced onion and butter for 3 1/2 to 5 minutes until the onion is tender.
- Add the frozen sliced okra, chopped stewed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and hot pepper sauce to the dish.
- Cover and microwave for 22 to 25 minutes, stirring twice, until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or bell peppers to the sautéed onions. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, a splash of soy sauce can work as a substitute. To save time, use pre-chopped onions or frozen diced vegetables. This dish is versatile; feel free to add other frozen vegetables like corn for added texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Microwave Okra Creole as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cool As A Cucumber Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the okra creole in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Okra Creole contains roughly 98 calories, with 5g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1618mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
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
Can I use fresh okra instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh okra! Just slice it into similar-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time as necessary. Fresh okra may require a minute or two longer in the microwave to become tender. Be sure to wash and dry the okra thoroughly before adding it to the dish.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Microwave Okra Creole is a vegetarian-friendly dish, making it a great option for those following a vegetarian diet. If you want to enhance the protein content, consider adding cooked beans or lentils for a heartier meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and combine them in the casserole dish ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate until you're ready to cook. When you're ready to eat, just microwave as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s been chilled.
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).