Discover the quickest and easiest way to enjoy the earthy, nutty flavors of a perfectly cooked artichoke with this simple microwave method. In just under 15 minutes, including prep time, you can steam a whole artichoke to tender perfection using nothing more than a microwave-safe bowl, a splash of water, and a hint of lemon for freshness. This foolproof recipe eliminates the need for bulky stovetop equipment, making it ideal for busy weeknights or single-serving portions. With optional drizzles of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, this dish is as customizable as it is convenient. Serve it warm with melted butter, tangy lemon juice, or your favorite dipping sauce for a healthy, satisfying appetizer or side. Learn how to cook an artichoke in the microwave and bring gourmet simplicity to your table today!
Rinse the artichoke under cold running water and shake off excess moisture.
Use scissors to trim off the sharp tips of the leaves if desired. Cut about 1 inch off the top of the artichoke and trim the stem so it can sit flat.
Slice a lemon in half and rub the cut edges of the artichoke with the lemon to prevent browning. Set the remaining lemon half aside.
Place the artichoke in a microwave-safe bowl and add 1/4 cup of water to the bottom of the bowl.
Drizzle olive oil over the artichoke if desired, and sprinkle a pinch of salt if using.
Cover the bowl tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe plate to create a steaming environment.
Microwave the artichoke on high for 6β8 minutes, depending on its size. Start checking for doneness at the 6-minute mark by carefully piercing the base with a forkβit should be tender when done.
Once cooked, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave using oven mitts, as it will be hot. Let the artichoke stand for 1β2 minutes to cool slightly.
Serve the artichoke warm with melted butter, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
Calories |
128 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 5.1 g | 7% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.8 g | 4% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 643 mg | 28% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 20.7 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.4 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.2 g | ||
| Protein | 4.7 g | 9% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 43 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 469 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.