Okra and Tomatoes

A classic for a reason! Okra and Tomatoes is a quick and easy vegetable side dish perfect for weeknights. 

One of the things that we like to do as parents is get our kids to try a variety of foods. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn’t.

Surprisingly though, with okra: IT WORKED. First we tried fried okra which is obviously a winner. Because fried. But for my kiddos, their absolute favorite way to eat okra is Okra and Tomatoes.

I can’t blame them though. This simple, easy recipe is a classic for a reason.

Let’s talk about what you need to make it. 

Okra and Tomatoes Ingredients: 

• OKRA: You can use fresh or frozen in this recipe.  Summer is okra season. Yet, we never get any real quality fresh okra at my grocery store, in season or not. For this reason, I use frozen okra in this recipe. If you have access to fresh, use that too. Simply cut off the root and slice the okra into bitesized pieces. If you are using frozen okra, no need to defrost before using. Simply add it to the pan frozen.
• DICED TOMATOES: Canned diced tomatoes work perfect for this recipe. No need to drain them. 
• SALT
• PEPPER
• GRANULATED GARLIC: You can also use an equal amount of garlic powder. If you only have garlic salt, omit the additional salt in the recipe.

How to make okra and tomatoes:

This okra and tomatoes recipe is super easy, making it great for weeknight side dishes. All that you need to do is combine all the ingredients in a skillet and cook until the okra and tomatoes are warmed through. It takes about 10 – 15 minutes. That’s all!

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Told you it was easy!

Storage and Leftovers: 

This reheats beautifully! Simply warm in a pot over medium heat or a zap in the microwave. 

Okra and Tomatoes Variations:

This recipe for Okra and Tomatoes is very basic. You only need okra, diced tomatoes, granulated garlic, salt and pepper. It is delicious, kid friendly, vegetarian and gluten free.

If you are looking for some variations though here are some ideas:

1. Cajun Okra and Tomatoes. Add some spicy cajun seasoning and a couple drops of hot sauce to the mix for an extra kick.
2. Add Bacon! Cook a few strips of thick cut bacon until browned. Reserve a tablespoon of pan drippings add some diced onion, okra and tomatoes and cook just until warmed through.
3. To make it more of a meal, add in some chopped andouille sausage.

If you’ve always been on the fence about okra, give this a shot. I think you’ll become a fan!

Recipe FAQ: 

If you loved this Okra and Tomatoes recipe, check out some of my other southern classics:

It doesn’t get anymore southern than Shrimp and Grits. Flavorful shrimp gravy spooned over cheesy grits will be a family favorite.

Fried Green Tomatoes is one of my absolute favorite appetizers!

Southern Black Eyed Peas are a classic for a reason. With chunks of fresh vegetables, smoky bacon and seasonings these are packed with flavor!

Note: Published in 2019. Updated in 2024 with new photos.