Simple Roasted Okra Recipe

This roasted okra is ready in 30 minutes. High-heat baking enhances the okra's flavor, makes it creamy, and removes its slimy texture.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings servings

Calories 101kcal

1 pound fresh okra
2 tablespoons olive oil see notes
1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or ½ teaspoon of any other salt, including Morton kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Preheat the oven to 450℉. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil or high-heat-resistant parchment paper.
Rinse the okra and dry it on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Trim the ends if you wish (this is not mandatory and I usually don't).
1 pound fresh okra
Place the okra in a large bowl and toss with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Arrange the okra in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast the okra until lightly browned and tender, about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through baking.
While the okra is in the oven, mix the dipping sauce ingredients (mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce) if you plan on using it.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon hot sauce
Serve the okra with or without the dipping sauce.

The nutrition info does not include the optional dipping sauce.
Seasonings, especially salt, are guidelines. Adjust to taste.
To improve okra's texture and remove its slime, roast it at very high heat, setting your oven to 450°F. In many recipes, you can play a little with the oven temperature, but here, I highly recommend sticking with a truly hot oven.
If you prefer an oil with a high smoke point, use avocado oil.
It's OK to use frozen okra, although fresh okra will caramelize better and come out firmer. Roast straight from frozen - don't thaw before roasting. Spread the pieces out on your baking sheet so they are not touching. Plan to roast for 5–15 minutes longer than you would for fresh.
You can keep the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat them uncovered in a 350°F oven. They are also delicious when served cold, antipasti style.