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Baked Okra in Tomato Sauce

A healthy and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish, this baked okra in tomato sauce combines tender okra with a rich, spiced tomato base, perfect as a side or light main course.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g fresh okra, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 400g canned chopped tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Meanwhile, toss the okra with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
  6. Spread the okra in a baking dish and pour the tomato sauce evenly over the top.
  7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the okra is tender and slightly golden on top.
  9. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen okra—if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before baking.
  • Adjust spices according to taste.
  • Great served with rice or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: okra, tomato sauce, baked okra, Mediterranean, vegan side dish