Delectable Steamed Artichokes: A Simple and Nutritious Side Dish

Ingredients

  • 4 large artichokes
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 cup of olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 cup of breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. First, prepare the artichokes. Trim the stem and remove the tough outer leaves. Cut off the top third of the artichoke and scoop out the fuzzy choke, if needed.
  3. Squeeze the lemon into a large bowl of cold water. Add the prepared artichokes to the lemon water to prevent them from browning.
  4. Crush the garlic and mix it with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Drain the artichokes. Using a spoon or your hands, spread the olive oil mixture between the artichoke leaves.
  6. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and thyme. Then stuff this mixture between the leaves of the artichokes.
  7. Place the stuffed artichokes in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the leaves can be easily removed.
  8. Once the artichokes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
  9. Enjoy your baked stuffed artichokes with additional lemon wedges or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for trimming and preparing the artichokes.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting off the stems and tops of the artichokes, as well as scooping out the choke if needed.
  • Bowl - A large bowl for soaking the artichokes in lemon water to prevent browning.
  • Garlic crusher - A tool for crushing the garlic cloves to mix with the olive oil.
  • Baking dish - A dish to place the stuffed artichokes in for baking.
  • Foil - Aluminum foil to cover the baking dish and help cook the artichokes evenly.
  • Spoon - A spoon to spread the olive oil mixture between the artichoke leaves.
  • Mixing bowl - A bowl for combining the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and thyme.

Recipe variations

  • Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
  • Use grated Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan for a variation in flavor.
  • Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the breadcrumb mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Include cooked bacon or pancetta in the stuffing for a savory and meaty option.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal.
  • Try a vegan option by omitting the cheese and using nutritional yeast in the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy flavor.
  • Add a touch of heat by incorporating red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the olive oil mixture.
  • Experiment with different herbs such as basil, rosemary, or oregano to vary the flavor profile.
  • Drizzle the artichokes with balsamic glaze or a vinaigrette dressing before serving for a tangy twist.
  • Grill the artichokes instead of baking them for a smoky flavor.

Recipe overview

Enjoy the savory goodness of these baked stuffed artichokes, a healthy and delicious side dish that's sure to impress. These large artichokes are prepared by removing the tough outer leaves and the fuzzy choke, and then they are soaked in lemon water to prevent browning. A flavorful mixture of garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper is then spread between the leaves. The artichokes are then stuffed with a delicious combination of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and thyme. After baking for an hour, the result is a tender and flavorful artichoke dish with a delightful cheesy breadcrumb stuffing. Serve these baked stuffed artichokes with extra lemon wedges or a dipping sauce of your choice for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Common questions

  1. How do I prepare the artichokes? To prepare the artichokes, trim the stem and remove the tough outer leaves. Cut off the top third of the artichoke and scoop out the fuzzy choke, if needed.
  2. How do I prevent the artichokes from browning? Squeeze the lemon into a large bowl of cold water and add the prepared artichokes to the lemon water. This will help prevent them from browning.
  3. How long should I bake the stuffed artichokes? Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the stuffed artichokes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 60 minutes, or until the leaves can be easily removed.
  4. Can I use a different type of cheese? Certainly! While the recipe calls for Parmesan cheese, you can experiment with different cheeses like feta or Gruyere to suit your taste preferences.
  5. What can I serve with baked stuffed artichokes? Baked stuffed artichokes can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a side dish. They pair well with lemon wedges or a dipping sauce of your choice, such as aioli or marinara sauce.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking dish - A suitable dish for baking the stuffed artichokes.
  • Foil - Used to cover the baking dish and retain moisture while baking the artichokes.
  • Spoon - To spread the olive oil mixture between the artichoke leaves.
  • Bowl - For soaking the artichokes in lemon water and mixing ingredients.
  • Knife - To trim the artichokes and remove the tough outer leaves.
  • Grater - For grating the Parmesan cheese.
  • Measuring cups - To ensure accurate measurement of ingredients.

Origin stories

Artichokes, a delightful delicacy to many, trace their origin back to the Mediterranean, notably Sicily - the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Celebrated as the artichoke capital of the world, Sicily boasts a vibrant history steeped in art and culture, the artichoke being no less a part of it. In the sun-drenched fields of this island, artichokes have been cultivated for centuries, their distinct flavor an echo of the rich Sicilian soil. In fact, they were highly prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans not just as a food, but also for their alleged medicinal properties. The Romans, in their grand banquets, would indulge in artichokes prepared with honey and vinegar. It's fascinating to imagine how a thorny plant transformed, through the centuries, into a beloved ingredient in many kitchens around the world. So, next time you savor a bite of your deliciously prepared artichoke dish, remember, you're partaking in a piece of ancient culinary tradition.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.