Simplify mealtime with this "Really Really Simple Artichokes" recipe, a fuss-free method to enjoy tender, flavorful artichokes in just 40 minutes. Perfect for beginners, this recipe uses minimal ingredientsโfresh artichokes, lemon, garlic, and olive oilโyet delivers maximum flavor. The artichokes are gently steamed with garlic-infused water and a bright splash of lemon juice, ensuring each bite is perfectly tender and aromatic. Topped with a drizzle of olive oil, this light and wholesome dish can stand alone as a healthy snack or complement your favorite meals as an elegant side. Whether you're new to cooking artichokes or simply seeking an effortless way to prepare them, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Prepare the artichokes by trimming the stems so they are flat and cutting off the top inch of each artichoke. Use kitchen scissors to trim the sharp tips of the outer leaves.
Slice the lemon in half. Rub one half over the cut edges of the artichokes to prevent browning. Reserve the other half for later use.
Peel the garlic cloves and smash them gently with the side of a knife to release their flavor.
In a large pot, add 4 cups of water, the smashed garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Squeeze in the juice of the reserved lemon half and toss the lemon rind into the pot as well.
Place a steaming basket or rack inside the pot and set the prepared artichokes upright in the basket. Make sure the water level is just below the bottom of the artichokes to avoid boiling them directly.
Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a steady simmer.
Steam the artichokes for about 30 minutes, or until the outer leaves can be easily pulled away and the base of the artichoke (the heart) is tender when pierced with a knife.
Carefully remove the artichokes from the pot using tongs and let them cool for a few minutes.
Drizzle the steamed artichokes with olive oil and serve warm, optionally with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Calories |
410 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.6 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2648 mg | 115% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.7 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.8 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.7 g | ||
| Protein | 9.8 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 209 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 3.4 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 1128 mg | 24% | |
*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.