18 Spicy Grilled Okra Recipes with a Twist

Author name

March 30, 2025

Get ready to spice up your grilling game with these 18 mouth-watering okra recipes! Okra, often overlooked and underutilized in many cuisines, is actually a superfood that’s packed with nutrients and has a unique, slightly slimy texture. When grilled to perfection, it becomes a sweet and smoky delight that pairs perfectly with a variety of flavors and ingredients.

In this article, we’re going to take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cultures and cuisines that use okra in innovative ways. From spicy Cajun-inspired dishes to creamy yogurt-based dips, these recipes are sure to add some excitement to your grilling repertoire.

Garlic and Chili Grilled Okra

Garlic and Chili Grilled Okra
Get ready to spice up your okra game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh okra, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together okra, garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the okra mixture with olive oil.
4. Grill the okra mixture for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes

Lemon Pepper Grilled Okra Skewers

Lemon Pepper Grilled Okra Skewers
Lemon Pepper Grilled Okra Skewers: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Okra

These sweet and tangy skewers are perfect for a quick summer dinner or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering. The combination of tender okra, zesty lemon pepper, and smoky grill flavor will have you hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra pods
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
– Salt to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread 4-5 okra pods onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each pod.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto the okra pods.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until okra is tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Smoky Paprika Grilled Okra

Smoky Paprika Grilled Okra
Get ready to elevate your outdoor cooking game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of okra with the smokiness of paprika. This dish is perfect for a summer evening, paired with your favorite sides and a refreshing drink.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the okra to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Grill the okra for 3-5 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
5. Remove from heat and serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Cajun Spiced Grilled Okra

Cajun Spiced Grilled Okra
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy twist on traditional okra. This Cajun-inspired recipe adds a kick to your grilling routine!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb fresh okra, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and paprika.
3. Add okra pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
5. Grill okra for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Honey Sriracha Grilled Okra

Honey Sriracha Grilled Okra
Honey Sriracha Grilled Okra is a game-changing side dish that combines the natural crunch of okra with the sweetness of honey and the spicy kick of sriracha. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for your next barbecue or potluck.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound okra, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and sriracha sauce.
3. Brush okra pods with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill okra for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush okra with the honey-sriracha mixture.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Parmesan and Herb Grilled Okra

Parmesan and Herb Grilled Okra
This recipe adds a savory and aromatic twist to the classic grilled okra, perfect for a quick and delicious summer side dish or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, and basil.
3. Add the okra to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the herb mixture.
4. Season the okra with salt and pepper.
5. Grill the okra for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the okra during the last minute of grilling.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes

Grilled Okra with Tahini Drizzle

Grilled Okra with Tahini Drizzle
A flavorful twist on traditional grilled okra, this recipe adds a creamy and nutty tahini drizzle to elevate the dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra pods
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup tahini paste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon water
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss okra with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Grill okra for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together tahini paste, lemon juice, and water in a small bowl.
5. Once okra is cooked, drizzle the tahini mixture over the top.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Spicy Grilled Okra and Corn Salad

Spicy Grilled Okra and Corn Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of grilled okra and corn with a kick of spice, perfect for a quick and flavorful side dish or light lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb okra, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add okra to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes.
4. Grill okra for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
5. In a large bowl, combine grilled okra, corn kernels, salt, and pepper.
6. Toss gently to combine.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Grilled Okra with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled Okra with Chimichurri Sauce
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of okra with the bright, herbaceous flavors of chimichurri sauce for a dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar.
3. Add sliced okra to the bowl and toss to coat with the chimichurri sauce.
4. Grill okra for 3-5 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Okra

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Okra
Transform okra into a sweet and tangy delight with this simple recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb okra, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sliced okra to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze mixture.
4. Grill okra for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Grilled Okra and Tomato Kebabs

Grilled Okra and Tomato Kebabs
Elevate your BBQ game with these flavorful and easy-to-make kebabs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 pound okra, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add okra and cherry tomatoes to the bowl; toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the okra is tender and the tomatoes are slightly charred.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Curry Spiced Grilled Okra

Curry Spiced Grilled Okra
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and crunchy Curry Spiced Grilled Okra recipe, perfect for a quick summer dinner or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb fresh okra pods
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add okra pods and toss to coat evenly.
4. If using garlic, mince it and add to the okra mixture; toss to combine.
5. Grill okra for 3-4 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as grilled meats or naan bread.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Grilled Okra with Yogurt Mint Dip

Grilled Okra with Yogurt Mint Dip
A refreshing twist on a Southern classic, this recipe combines the crispy texture of grilled okra with the cooling flavors of yogurt and mint. Perfect for a light and flavorful summer side dish or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound okra pods
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut okra into desired size (about 1 inch pieces).
3. Brush okra with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill okra for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and slightly charred.
5. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, mint leaves, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
6. Serve grilled okra warm with yogurt mint dip on the side.

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes

Grilled Okra and Shrimp Skewers

Grilled Okra and Shrimp Skewers
These colorful skewers combine the tender sweetness of okra with the savory taste of succulent shrimp, all grilled to perfection. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup fresh okra pods, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread shrimp and okra onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the top of each skewer with the marinade mixture.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and okra is tender.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Grilled Okra with Sesame Soy Glaze

Grilled Okra with Sesame Soy Glaze
A sweet and savory twist on traditional okra, this recipe adds a depth of flavor with a sticky sesame soy glaze. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads and bowls.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb fresh okra, trimmed
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Brush both sides of okra with the glaze.
4. Grill okra for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Grilled Okra Stuffed with Cheese

Grilled Okra Stuffed with Cheese
Elevate your okra game by stuffing it with melted cheese and grilling to perfection.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra, trimmed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Stuff each okra pod with about 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese.
3. Brush the outside of the okra pods with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Place stuffed okra on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the okra is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Grilled Okra and Bacon Wraps

Grilled Okra and Bacon Wraps
Savory and smoky, these grilled okra and bacon wraps are a delicious twist on traditional appetizers or snacks.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 large flour tortillas (or equivalent wraps)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush okra slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill okra for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, wrap each tortilla with a few slices of crispy bacon.
5. Once okra is cooked, place it on top of the bacon wraps.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time:

– Okra: 4-6 minutes total
– Bacon Wraps: none (pre-cooked)
– Total: approximately 10 minutes

Grilled Okra with Spicy Aioli

Grilled Okra with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of grilled okra with the tanginess of spicy aioli. Perfect for a quick and delicious side dish or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh okra, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
– Optional: lemon wedges, chopped parsley

Spicy Aioli Recipe:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush okra slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill okra for 3-4 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
4. Meanwhile, prepare Spicy Aioli by whisking together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and garlic.
5. Serve grilled okra warm with a dollop of Spicy Aioli on top. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Discover new flavors with these 18 spicy grilled okra recipes that put a twist on traditional dishes. From Garlic and Chili Grilled Okra to Honey Sriracha Grilled Okra, each recipe adds a kick to this popular vegetable. Try Lemon Pepper Grilled Okra Skewers or Curry Spiced Grilled Okra for a taste of the exotic. For a sweet and spicy combination, try Balsamic Glazed Grilled Okra or Spicy Grilled Okra and Corn Salad. With a range of flavors and ingredients to choose from, you’re sure to find your new favorite grilled okra recipe.

Leave a Comment