Artichoke Vinaigrette

Artichoke Vinaigrette Recipe from Italy | Ingredients & Steps

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Artichoke Vinaigrette recipe is a delightful and elegant dish that combines the tender, earthy flavors of globe artichokes with the tangy and aromatic qualities of a homemade vinaigrette dressing. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the subtle complexities of vegetable-based recipes and are looking for a healthy yet indulgent option. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a refreshing new way to enjoy artichokes, this recipe promises to deliver on flavor, nutrition, and visual appeal.

History

The artichoke has been a cherished ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans. They considered it a delicacy and attributed to it various health benefits. The vinaigrette dressing, a classic emulsion of oil and vinegar flavored with herbs, spices, and mustard, has its roots in French cuisine. The combination of artichokes with a vinaigrette dressing is a relatively modern culinary innovation that celebrates the fusion of these traditional ingredients, offering a fresh and contemporary take on classic flavors.

Ingredients

4 extra large globe artichokes
1 lemon
2 qt (1.89 liters) water
2 tsp salt
3 tbsp sherry vinegar
3 tbsp dijon mustard
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
2 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon
2 tbsp chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly-ground white pepper
0.5 cup extra-virgin olive oil

How to prepare

Trim the sharp tips of the outside artichoke leaves with a sharp knife.
Cut off the top of the artichoke about 1 inch and remove the stem so that the bottom is flat.
Wash the artichoke in cold water and rub all cut surfaces with some of the fresh lemon juice and pulp. (You can tie a round slice of lemon to the bottom of the artichoke to prevent oxidation of the base.)
Bring water to a boil, add the salt and the remaining pieces of the lemon, including the rind, and place the artichokes base down.
Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil again before reducing the heat to a simmer.
Cook the artichoke at a steady simmer for 35 to 45 minutes or until a leaf pulls easily free from the center.
Allow the artichoke to cool for 10 minutes in the water, then remove and let it cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, you can drizzle some of the cooking juices over the top of the artichokes.
In a stainless steel bowl, combine the vinegar, mustard, herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk until emulsified.
Add the oil in a small steady stream until all the oil has been incorporated and the dressing has achieved a silky, smooth texture.
You can store the dressing, covered, in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. However, make sure to bring it to room temperature before using.
Serve the artichoke with some vinaigrette on the side as a dip for each leaf or drizzled over the heart.

Variations

For a creamy vinaigrette, blend the dressing with a small amount of Greek yogurt or avocado.
Add capers or olives to the vinaigrette for a briny, salty kick.
Incorporate roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes into the dressing for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Artichoke Vinaigrette turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Choose artichokes that feel heavy for their size and have tightly packed, squeaky-fresh leaves.

- Use a stainless steel knife to prevent the artichoke from discoloring when cutting.

- To prevent the artichokes from browning, place them in water mixed with lemon juice immediately after cutting.

- Ensure the water is boiling before adding the artichokes to cook them evenly.

- Test for doneness by gently tugging on a leaf; it should pull away easily when the artichoke is cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Artichoke Vinaigrette as a stunning appetizer or a light main course. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the artichokes instead of boiling them can help preserve more of their nutrients and flavor. To steam, place the prepared artichokes in a steamer basket over simmering water, cover, and cook until tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If sherry vinegar is unavailable, substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.

- Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried herbs; use one-third the amount specified for fresh.

- For a different flavor profile, use balsamic vinegar and replace the herbs with basil and oregano.

Make Ahead Tips

The vinaigrette can be prepared up to two weeks in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The artichokes can be cooked a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Bring both the artichokes and vinaigrette to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve each artichoke on individual plates with a small bowl of vinaigrette on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional chopped herbs and a lemon wedge for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine complements the tanginess of the vinaigrette and the richness of the artichoke.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover artichokes and vinaigrette separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The artichokes are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, while the vinaigrette should be brought to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Artichoke Vinaigrette contains approximately 200 calories. The majority of these calories come from the olive oil in the vinaigrette, making it a relatively low-calorie option that doesn't sacrifice flavor or satisfaction.

Carbohydrates

Artichokes are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion. A medium-sized artichoke contains about 14 grams of carbohydrates, the majority of which comes from fiber. This makes artichokes an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy digestive system while keeping their carbohydrate intake in check.

Fats

The primary source of fat in this recipe comes from the extra-virgin olive oil used in the vinaigrette. Olive oil is renowned for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. A serving of this Artichoke Vinaigrette contains approximately 14 grams of fat, most of which are these beneficial fats. Incorporating olive oil into your diet can help improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Proteins

Artichokes themselves are not a significant source of protein, containing about 3-4 grams per medium artichoke. However, they can be part of a balanced meal that includes other protein sources. The focus of this dish is on its rich fiber content and the health benefits of its other ingredients.

Vitamins and minerals

Artichokes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, phosphorus, and magnesium. These nutrients play vital roles in bone health, red blood cell formation, and maintaining healthy skin and blood pressure levels.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, soy, and gluten, making it suitable for individuals with these specific food sensitivities or allergies. However, always check the labels of purchased ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, the Artichoke Vinaigrette is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a heart-healthy option that supports digestion and offers a range of beneficial nutrients.

Summary

The Artichoke Vinaigrette recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a dish that is both nutritious and full of flavor. With its rich history, versatile serving options, and numerous health benefits, this dish is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Artichoke Vinaigrette. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Sophie who lived in the countryside. Sophie was a wonderful cook and always had the most delicious recipes up her sleeve. That day, as we sat in her garden sipping on iced tea, she decided to whip up a batch of this unique vinaigrette for our salad.

As I watched her deftly prepare the ingredients, I was mesmerized by the way she transformed a simple artichoke into a flavorful dressing that would elevate our salad to new heights. She explained to me that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had inherited it from a dear friend many years ago.

I was intrigued by the history behind the recipe and begged Sophie to teach me how to make it. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed and guided me through each step, sharing tips and tricks along the way. I carefully took notes, knowing that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

The first time I made the Artichoke Vinaigrette on my own, I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride. The flavors were bold and tangy, with a hint of sweetness that complemented the fresh vegetables perfectly. I served it to my family that evening, and they were blown away by the unique taste.

Over the years, I have continued to make this recipe countless times, each time adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am known for and one that brings back fond memories of that summer day with Sophie.

As I reflect on the journey I have taken with this recipe, I am grateful for the friendships and connections it has brought into my life. From Sophie's grandmother to my own family, each person who has passed down this recipe has left a mark on my heart. I am proud to carry on the tradition and share this delicious vinaigrette with those I love.

So, the next time you find yourself in need of a show-stopping dressing to elevate your salad, look no further than the Artichoke Vinaigrette. With its rich history and bold flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your own kitchen. Enjoy!