Stuffed Artichokes with Lemon and Herbs
This dish is a classic for a reason: it's easy to make, and the combination of artichokes, lemon, and herbs is simply delicious. The artichokes are first blanched to remove their bitterness, then stuffed with a mixture of bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs. They're then baked until golden brown and tender.
The result is a dish that's both elegant and comforting. It's perfect for a special occasion, but it's also easy enough to make for a weeknight meal.
Artichokes have been cultivated for centuries, and they've been a popular food in many cultures around the world. The first recorded mention of artichokes dates back to the 8th century BC, when they were grown in ancient Greece. Artichokes were also popular in ancient Rome, and they were later introduced to other parts of Europe by the Romans. Artichokes made their way to the Americas in the 16th century, and they quickly became a popular food in the New World. Today, artichokes are grown in many parts of the world, and they're enjoyed by people of all cultures.
The artichoke is a member of the sunflower family, and it's related to the thistle. Artichokes are actually the flower buds of the plant, and they're harvested before they open. The artichoke head is made up of a number of spiky leaves, and the edible part of the artichoke is the heart, which is located at the base of the leaves.
Artichokes are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They're also low in calories and fat. Artichokes have a slightly bitter taste, but this bitterness can be removed by blanching the artichokes before cooking them.
Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 45 | Serves: 6
Ingredients
6 artichokes
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Cut off the top 1 inch of the artichokes and remove the fuzzy choke from the center.
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, onion, garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, and lemon juice.
Stuff the artichokes with the mixture.
Place the artichokes in a baking dish and add 1/2 cup of water.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender.
Serve warm.
Why It Works
Blanching the artichokes removes their bitterness and helps them to cook evenly.
The bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese add flavor and richness to the stuffing.
The garlic and herbs add depth of flavor to the dish.
Baking the artichokes until golden brown and tender ensures that they are cooked through and have a slightly crispy exterior.