Stuffed Artichokes are a true embodiment of the Mediterranean cuisine. They are a combination of earthy, tender artichokes and a filling of different herbs, breadcrumbs, and cheese that bring forth a burst of flavors in every bite. This dish is a common feature in Italian and Greek cuisines and has been passed down through generations as a tradition.
The artichoke can be considered somewhat of an intimidating vegetable - its thorny leaves and choke can deter anyone from attempting to cook it. But once cooked correctly, it presents itself magnificently as a wonderful canvas for a wide range of flavors. Stuffed artichokes are one of the many ways to prepare this unique vegetable.
To prepare stuffed artichokes, the first step is to remove the tough outer leaves and trim the top of the artichokes. Then, the choke inside the artichoke must be removed before blanching it in boiling salted water. Once tender, they are ready for the filling. There are numerous ways to prepare the stuffing, but as a general rule, a mixture of herbs like oregano, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest are used with breadcrumbs and grated cheese such as Parmesan or pecorino.
The filling is then packed tightly into the artichoke leaves, and the artichokes are placed in a baking dish, drizzled with olive oil and water and baked in a preheated oven. Once done, they are ready to be served either hot or cold with a squeeze of lemon juice.
There are endless ways to modify the dish to your liking - for example, adding garlic or pine nuts to the stuffing can add more depth to its flavor. They can even be stuffed with ground meat to make it a heartier meal.
Stuffed artichokes are not only healthy, but they are also versatile, delicious, and an excellent summer dish. They make a great appetizer or can serve as a main course with a side of salad or roasted vegetables. So next time you see an artichoke in your grocery store, don't be afraid to take it home and experiment with a new Mediterranean classic.
The artichoke can be considered somewhat of an intimidating vegetable - its thorny leaves and choke can deter anyone from attempting to cook it. But once cooked correctly, it presents itself magnificently as a wonderful canvas for a wide range of flavors. Stuffed artichokes are one of the many ways to prepare this unique vegetable.
To prepare stuffed artichokes, the first step is to remove the tough outer leaves and trim the top of the artichokes. Then, the choke inside the artichoke must be removed before blanching it in boiling salted water. Once tender, they are ready for the filling. There are numerous ways to prepare the stuffing, but as a general rule, a mixture of herbs like oregano, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest are used with breadcrumbs and grated cheese such as Parmesan or pecorino.
The filling is then packed tightly into the artichoke leaves, and the artichokes are placed in a baking dish, drizzled with olive oil and water and baked in a preheated oven. Once done, they are ready to be served either hot or cold with a squeeze of lemon juice.
There are endless ways to modify the dish to your liking - for example, adding garlic or pine nuts to the stuffing can add more depth to its flavor. They can even be stuffed with ground meat to make it a heartier meal.
Stuffed artichokes are not only healthy, but they are also versatile, delicious, and an excellent summer dish. They make a great appetizer or can serve as a main course with a side of salad or roasted vegetables. So next time you see an artichoke in your grocery store, don't be afraid to take it home and experiment with a new Mediterranean classic.
