Zesty Lemon Parmesan Roasted Okra
This delightful and vibrant dish features small, tender okra roasted to perfection with zesty lemon and nutty Parmigiano-Reggiano. Adapted from the original recipe by Tina Danze, this version encourages the use of frozen okra for optimal flavor and convenience—no need to hunt down fresh okra! The perfect balance of tangy lemon juice and aromatic lemon zest adds brightness, while the Parmesan cheese lends a rich, savory depth that complements the natural sweetness of the okra. A simple yet impressive side dish that will elevate any meal!
N/A
Servings
52.5
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
small okra
12 ounces (frozen, thawed, and patted dry)
extra-virgin olive oil
1.5 tablespoons (none)
lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
lemon
1 (zest)
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1.5 tablespoons (finely grated)
coarse salt
0.5 teaspoon (to taste)
fresh ground black pepper
to taste (none)
Additional Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1 tablespoon (finely grated, for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and patted dry okra with extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, 1.5 tablespoons of finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, coarse salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until the okra is evenly coated.
3
Spread the seasoned okra in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
4
Roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the okra is tender and lightly browned.
5
Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven, and immediately sprinkle the okra with an additional tablespoon of finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for an extra burst of flavor.
6
Taste the okra and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed, then serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly roasted, zesty lemon Parmesan okra!
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
4g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient of this recipe?
The main ingredient is 12 ounces of small okra, preferably frozen, thawed, and patted dry.
Can I use fresh okra instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh okra if available, but the recipe suggests frozen okra for optimal flavor and convenience.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
How long does the okra need to roast?
The okra should be roasted for approximately 15 minutes.
What kind of cheese is used in this dish?
The recipe calls for finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
Is this roasted okra recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian as it contains only vegetables, oil, lemon, and cheese.
Is the Zesty Lemon Parmesan Roasted Okra gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredient list, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 52.5 calories in a serving of this dish.
How should I prepare the frozen okra before roasting?
The frozen okra should be thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
Why does the recipe recommend patting the okra dry?
Patting the okra dry helps ensure it roasts properly and achieves a lightly browned texture rather than steaming.
What size okra pods are best for this recipe?
Small okra pods are recommended because they are generally more tender.
Should I use fresh or bottled lemon juice?
The recipe specifies using freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
How much olive oil is required for the recipe?
You will need 1.5 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil.
When should I add the additional tablespoon of Parmigiano-Reggiano?
The extra cheese should be sprinkled over the okra immediately after removing it from the oven.
Can I adjust the amount of salt and pepper?
Yes, you should taste the roasted okra and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed before serving.
What is the purpose of adding lemon zest?
Lemon zest adds aromatic brightness and tang that complements the savory Parmesan cheese.
How do I ensure the okra roasts evenly?
Spread the okra in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet to ensure even heat distribution.
What equipment do I need for this recipe?
You will need a large mixing bowl and a rimmed baking sheet.
Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
While pre-grated cheese works, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano is recommended for better flavor and melting.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides 2.5 grams of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
The fat content is 2.5 grams per serving.
Who is the original creator of this recipe?
The recipe is adapted from an original version by Tina Danze.
Does this recipe use coarse salt or table salt?
The recipe specifically calls for 0.5 teaspoon of coarse salt.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but be sure to use two baking sheets to keep the okra in a single layer.
What can I substitute for Parmigiano-Reggiano?
You can substitute with Grana Padano or a high-quality domestic Parmesan cheese.
Is this a quick and easy dish to make?
Yes, it is tagged as quick and easy and takes roughly 15 minutes of roasting time.
How should I serve the roasted okra?
It should be served immediately while hot to maintain its texture and flavor.
What makes this okra recipe 'zesty'?
The combination of fresh lemon juice and aromatic lemon zest gives the dish its zesty profile.
Is it necessary to use extra-virgin olive oil?
Extra-virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor, but you can use other cooking oils if necessary.