Garlic Lemon Grilled Okra with Tahini Dressing is a dish that beautifully marries the flavors of smoky grilled okra with the bright, tangy notes of lemon and garlic, all enveloped in a creamy tahini dressing. This combination creates a harmonious and exciting culinary experience that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Okra, often celebrated for its unique texture and nutritional benefits, serves as the star of this dish. Grilling okra imparts a smoky flavor while preserving its characteristic crunch. Unlike other methods of cooking okra that can sometimes lead to a slimy texture, grilling ensures that the okra remains firm and slightly charred, adding a delightful smokiness to each bite.
The preparation of this dish begins with making the tahini dressing. Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, lends a nutty, creamy base that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients. By whisking together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and ground black pepper, you create a dressing that is smooth, pourable, and packed with flavor. This dressing not only complements the grilled okra but also adds a luxurious texture and rich taste.
What is tahini (tahina)?
Tahini, a creamy paste derived from sesame seeds, offers a rich, nutty flavor. Commonly featured in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes such as hummus and baba ganoush, it serves as a versatile component in dressings, sauces, and sweets. Its velvety consistency and unique taste greatly enhance a wide range of recipes.
Grilling the okra is the next step. Toss the trimmed okra in extra virgin olive oil and season it with salt and ground black pepper to prepare it for the grill. The grilling process takes about 4-6 minutes, during which the okra is turned occasionally to ensure even cooking and a slight char. This cooking method enhances the okra’s natural flavors and gives it a delicious, smoky edge.
Once the okra is grilled, it is immediately tossed with minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This step is crucial as the residual heat from the grilled okra helps to release the flavors of the garlic and lemon, infusing the okra with a bright and tangy taste. The combination of the smoky okra, zesty lemon, and pungent garlic creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and invigorating.
The final assembly of the dish involves transferring the grilled okra to a serving platter and drizzling it generously with the tahini dressing. The creamy, nutty tahini dressing envelops the grilled okra, adding a layer of richness and depth. For an extra burst of flavor and a touch of elegance, the dish can be garnished with additional lemon zest or freshly chopped herbs like parsley.
This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a healthy option. Okra is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The tahini dressing, made from sesame seeds, is a good source of healthy fats and protein. This makes Garlic Lemon Grilled Okra with Tahini Dressing a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise flavor.
Ideal as a side dish or a light appetizer, this recipe is versatile and can be paired with various main courses. With its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation, it brings a touch of sophistication to any meal, impressing guests with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation. Whether you seek a healthy addition to your dinner table or a unique dish to delight friends at a gathering, Garlic Lemon Grilled Okra with Tahini Dressing is an excellent choice that blends taste, nutrition, and elegance in every bite.
Garlic Lemon Grilled Okra with Tahini Dressing
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes30
minutesGarlic Lemon Grilled Okra with Tahini Dressing is a flavorful dish featuring smoky grilled okra tossed with zesty garlic and lemon, drizzled with a creamy tahini dressing for a nutritious and delicious side.
Ingredients
- For the Garlic Lemon Grilled Okra
1 pound okra
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
to taste, salt and ground black pepper
- For the Tahini Dressing
1/4 cup tahini dressing
1 lemon, juiced
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons water
to taste, salt and ground black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Tahini Dressing:
Whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and ground black pepper until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary. The dressing should be pourable but not too thin. Cover and refrigerate until ready for use. - Prepare the Grill and Okra:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Toss the okra with extra virgin olive oil, and season with salt and ground black pepper. - Grill the Okra:
Place the seasoned okra on the grill in a single layer. Grill for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the okra is tender and slightly charred. - Toss with Lemon and Garlic:
Immediately after grilling, toss the okra with minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. - Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the grilled okra to a serving platter. Drizzle the tahini dressing generously over the grilled okra. - Serve:
Serve immediately as a side dish or appetizer. Garnish with additional lemon zest or chopped fresh parsley.