Okra and Tomatoes

Nothing says summer like juicy, ripe tomatoes, especially when they are picked straight out of the garden.  For this yummy recipe that features two summertime standouts, visit your local farmer's market (or neighbor's garden, if you're lucky) for the freshest, most delicious okra and tomatoes.  

This dish is delicious with sautéed shrimp and grits, or as a colorful side to grilled chicken.  

Ingredients

• 4 slices 40% less fat bacon, diced into small pieces
• 1 small onion, peeled and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoons The Delicious Dietitian Tomato Wine Vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2.5 cups fresh okra, cut into 1-inch pieces 
• 1 tablespoon The Delicious Dietitian Southern All Purpose Spice Blend
• Fresh ground black pepper

Directions

Cook bacon slightly. Saute onion and garlic with bacon until tender. Add tomatoes, sugar, spice blend and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for about 20 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed. Meanwhile wash okra and remove fuzz if using fresh and cut into pieces. Add the okra and simmer until okra is done, about 20 more minutes.