Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This okra, corn, and tomato dish is a summer sensation, bursting with fresh garden goodness. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It's the epitome of delicious dishes and one of the best recipes for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh okra, trimmed and sliced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes (Roma or cherry work well)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Wash and trim the okra, slicing it into ½-inch rounds. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the tomatoes. If using frozen corn, make sure it's thawed.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the Okra and Spices: Add the sliced okra to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften slightly. Stir in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the corn and chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro (if desired) and serve hot. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a lovely zing. This dish is fantastic as a side or a light main course.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cumin or chili powder along with the smoked paprika.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can boost the protein by adding a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or black beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper or use a smaller amount. For extra heat, add a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the onion.
- Frozen Okra: If you're using frozen okra, you may want to slightly reduce the cooking time, as it will cook faster.
- Different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant would all be delicious additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe provides a healthy meal rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
This okra, corn, and tomato recipe is a simple yet satisfying example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. It's a testament to the beauty of homemade cooking, offering a delicious and nutritious option without complicated techniques. Try it out, and elevate your everyday meals!