Are you looking for a delicious and impressive dish to wow your family and friends? Look no further! These stuffed artichokes are a celebration of Italian flavors, surprisingly easy to make, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. This recipe delivers a healthy and flavorful meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet elegant dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 large artichokes
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Artichokes:
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Clean the Artichokes: First, cut off the stem of each artichoke, about an inch from the base. Trim the pointy tips of the outer leaves. Using a spoon, carefully scrape out the fuzzy choke from the center of each artichoke.
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Prepare for Stuffing: Cut each artichoke in half lengthwise. Rub the cut surfaces with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Making the Stuffing:
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped parsley, mint, toasted pine nuts, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Stuff the Artichokes: Spoon the stuffing evenly into the center of each artichoke half.
Baking the Artichokes:
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Arrange and Bake: Place the stuffed artichoke halves in a baking dish. Add about 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the dish to prevent the artichokes from drying out.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender and the stuffing is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the artichoke leaves; they should be easily pierced.
Tips for Success:
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor and gives them a delightful crunch.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish. This ensures even cooking.
- If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, add a bit more lemon juice to the stuffing.
Variations:
- Add some cooked sausage or pancetta to the stuffing for a heartier dish.
- Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for some of the parsley and mint for a sunnier flavor profile.
- Sprinkle some mozzarella cheese over the stuffing before baking for extra cheesy goodness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This stuffed artichoke recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy meals you can easily create at home. Enjoy this taste of Italy, and don't hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect combination. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!