Fried Squash and Okra

Late summer is here and we have produce! I have to admit that sometimes I sit produce on my counter and feel healthy just having it there and intending to cook it. And it never sounds good so I leave it sitting there until I have to throw it away. Then I feel guilty so I get more produce to eat. See the vicious cycle?

Let's break that cycle! What isn't better fried? So let's fry that produce! My favorites are squash, okra, and zucchini and they are done in almost the same method. You only need two things besides the produce. And the pan. And some oil. Ok, you need five things!

For the sake of measurements, let's say you have 2 medium-sized squash or zucchini, or a plateful of small okra.
1 cup cornmeal
1 1/2 tbsp. spicy seasoning blend- try Mrs. Dash extra spicy, you won't be disappointed!

Wash your produce and remove the ends. Slice the produce thinly. I like my fried veggies crispy! And the thinner the slices, the crispier it will be. Okra can be a little thicker because it's so small.

Combine cornmeal and seasoning blend in a plate. For the zucchini and squash, coat each slice in the cornmeal mixture, making sure to cover both sides. Do this as you are ready to put it in the pan. If you do it all beforehand, water will leak out of the veggies and make your coating gummy. Gross. You do not need much of the coating!

Fry in oil in a medium heated pan until brown, then turn and cook until crispy. Place on plate covered in paper towels to soak up the extra grease. Repeat till it's all cooked.

Good luck getting it to the table! My brother and I always ate it as Mom was cooking it. Justin and Micah do the same here!

Place okra slices in a bowl and sprinkle the cornmeal mixture over the top. Toss okra around in bowl to coat all sides lightly. Cook 2/3 cup at a time, stirring frequently, until browned on all sides. Remove to a plate covered with paper towels. Repeat until all the okra is cooked!

I always rationalize that at least I'm eating my vegetables even if I am frying them! Enjoy!