If you're looking for a nutritious and low-calorie meal option, look no further than 1 cup of cooked tomato and okra! This dish contains only 41 calories and is a great source of vitamins and minerals. Not to mention, it's easy to prepare and can be incorporated into a variety of recipes.
Tomatoes and okra are both excellent sources of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Tomatoes also contain lycopene, a carotenoid with potential anti-cancer properties. Okra, on the other hand, contains calcium and potassium, which can help support bone and heart health.
In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of consuming tomato and okra, as well as provide some recipe ideas to help you incorporate these superfoods into your diet.
As previously mentioned, one cup of cooked tomato and okra contains only 41 calories. This serving size also provides: - 2 grams of protein
- 9 grams of carbohydrates
- 4 grams of fiber
- 8% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A
- 40% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C
- 6% of the daily recommended intake of calcium
- 9% of the daily recommended intake of potassium
Health benefits of consuming tomato and okra
The combination of tomatoes and okra provide a range of health benefits, including: - Support for heart health: The potassium in okra can help regulate blood pressure, while the lycopene in tomatoes may reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Improved digestion: Both okra and tomatoes are high in fiber, which can support healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
- Reduced inflammation: The antioxidants found in both foods can help fight inflammation throughout the body, which is linked to a variety of chronic conditions.
- Stronger bones: The calcium in okra can support bone strength and density.
Ways to incorporate tomato and okra in your diet
There are many ways to add tomato and okra to your meals, including: - Adding okra to stews or soups
- Roasting or grilling tomatoes and okra as a side dish
- Adding both vegetables to salads or sandwich wraps
- Using them as a base for a vegetarian curry or stir-fry
- Making a flavorful tomato and okra soup
- Creating an appetizing tomato and okra side dish
Vegan tomato and okra recipe ideas
Looking for vegan-friendly recipe ideas? Try these: - Tomato and okra curry with chickpeas and coconut milk
- Roasted tomato and okra salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Spicy tomato and okra soup with quinoa and fresh herbs
Gluten-free tomato and okra recipe ideas
For those with gluten sensitivities or intolerances, these recipes are both tasty and safe: - Grilled tomato and okra kebabs with a gluten-free marinade
- Tomato and okra gumbo made with gluten-free flour
- Roasted tomato and okra dip served with gluten-free crackers
Low-calorie tomato and okra recipe ideas
If you're watching your calorie intake, these recipes are both light and satisfying: - Tomato and okra stir-fry with brown rice and tofu
- Tomato and okra gazpacho served with a side of grilled shrimp
- Oven-roasted tomato and okra with garlic and herbs
Tomato and okra soup recipe
Warm up on a chilly day with this simple Tomato and okra soup recipe: - In a large pot, sauté 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until soft.
- Add 4 cups of vegetable broth, 2 cups of diced tomatoes, and 1 cup of sliced okra.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (such as thyme or basil).
- Serve hot with a crusty slice of bread.
Stewed tomato and okra recipe
A southern classic, this stewed tomato and okra recipe is perfect for showcasing the flavors of these two delicious veggies: - In a large pot, sauté 1 diced onion in 2 tablespoons of butter until soft.
- Add 4 cups of chopped tomatoes, 2 cups of sliced okra, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Cover and let simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and let cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices (such as cumin or paprika).
- Serve hot with a scoop of rice.
Tomato and okra curry recipe
Spice up your menu with this flavorful Tomato and okra curry recipe: - In a large pot, sauté 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 2 teaspoons of curry powder in 1 tablespoon of oil until fragrant.
- Add 3 cups of diced tomatoes, 2 cups of sliced okra, and 1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed).
- Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with a side of naan bread.
Simple tomato and okra side dish recipe
Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying, like this easy tomato and okra side dish: - Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Slice 2 cups of cherry tomatoes in half and toss with 1 cup of sliced okra, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 2 minced garlic cloves.
- Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are softened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro).
- Serve warm or cold as a side dish or salad topping.
5 FAQ About 1 Cup Cooked Tomato and Okra
1. What is the nutritional value of 1 cup cooked tomato and okra?
1 cup cooked tomato and okra contains 41 calories, no added fat, 8g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and 1g fat.
2. How is 1 cup cooked tomato and okra typically prepared?
1 cup cooked tomato and okra is typically prepared by simmering diced tomatoes and sliced okra in a pot with seasoning until tender.
3. What are the health benefits of 1 cup cooked tomato and okra?
1 cup cooked tomato and okra is a low-calorie, high-fiber dish that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and potassium. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties and help support heart health.
4. Is 1 cup cooked tomato and okra suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Yes, 1 cup cooked tomato and okra is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets as it contains no animal products or by-products.
5. How can 1 cup cooked tomato and okra be incorporated into a meal?
1 cup cooked tomato and okra can be enjoyed as a side dish or added to soups, stews, and casseroles for extra flavor and nutrition. It can also be used as a topping for rice, pasta, or baked potatoes.