Summer Okra Casserole(Yields 4 Servings)
A vibrant summer casserole featuring tender okra, savory seitan, and tangy pickles, topped with golden biscuits—perfect for a hearty, plant-based meal in warm weather.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Fry seitan in olive oil until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced onion, vegetable soup, chopped pickles, catsup, and okra to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Pour the mixture into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch casserole dish and top with biscuits.
- Bake until biscuits are golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, feel free to replace the seitan with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of beans. If you prefer a bit more spice, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can use any variety of okra, but fresh or frozen works best for texture. Consider using Hamburger Dill Pickles for an extra tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Summer Okra Casserole is delightful when served with a side salad, such as Marinated Cauliflower Salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For added freshness, garnish with chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. It also pairs beautifully with Peaches And Cream Pudding Cake for a sweet finish to the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Okra Casserole(Yields 4 Servings) contains roughly 1606 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 171g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 528mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen okra can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh. Just ensure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture. Frozen okra may require a slightly longer cooking time to achieve the desired texture.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the seitan with a gluten-free protein option like chickpeas or lentils. Ensure that the canned vegetable soup and biscuits you choose are also labeled gluten-free. You can even make your own gluten-free biscuits for the topping.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a light coleslaw or a fresh garden salad. Additionally, cornbread or a simple rice pilaf makes for excellent accompaniments that complement the flavors of the dish.
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).