Italian Stuffed Artichokes

Italian Stuffed Artichokes Recipe - Vegetarian Delight from Italy | FoodRecipesSEO

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Italian Stuffed Artichokes are a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for a special dinner or gathering. These artichokes are filled with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and tomatoes, creating a dish that is both elegant and satisfying.

History

Stuffed artichokes have been a popular dish in Italian cuisine for centuries. Artichokes are native to the Mediterranean region and have been enjoyed in Italy since ancient times. The tradition of stuffing artichokes with a flavorful mixture of ingredients is a classic Italian preparation that highlights the natural flavors of this unique vegetable.

Ingredients

4 large globe artichokes, 8 to 10 oz (283 g) each
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup dried breadcrumbs
0.5 cup finely grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese
1 tsp chopped fresh oregano
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 medium-sized tomato, peeled, seeded and chopped

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and oil the bottom of a large casserole dish with a cover.
2. Remove the stems and all outer leaves from the artichokes. Pull out the cone of tender inner leaves and use a small spoon to scrape away the thistly choke from the center. Trim away any dark green bits from the bottoms. Place the trimmed artichokes into acidulated water.
3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring often, until softened for 3 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Transfer to a bowl and add the breadcrumbs, cheese, oregano, and parsley. Use a fork to blend into a well-mixed loose stuffing and season with salt and pepper.
4. Drain the artichokes and place them on a work surface upside down. Gently press down with the heel of your hand to loosen the leaves. Using your fingers, pull the leaves apart and fill the insides with small amounts of stuffing, distributing the stuffing evenly among the artichokes.
5. Arrange the stuffed artichokes snugly in the casserole dish. Sprinkle chopped tomatoes over the top and cover.
6. Bake until a skewer easily pierces through the artichoke from top to bottom, for about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven, cool slightly, and serve in individual bowls.

Variations

You can customize the stuffing mixture for Italian Stuffed Artichokes by adding ingredients such as chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or pine nuts. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to create a unique and delicious dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When preparing stuffed artichokes, be sure to remove the thistly choke from the center of the artichoke before filling it with the stuffing mixture. This will ensure that the artichoke is tender and easy to eat. Additionally, be sure to season the stuffing mixture well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Stuffed Artichokes can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the stuffed artichokes in a covered casserole dish helps to steam the artichokes and cook them evenly. Be sure to check the artichokes periodically to ensure they are cooked through and tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh oregano or parsley, you can use dried herbs instead. You can also substitute different types of cheese in the stuffing mixture, such as Parmesan or mozzarella.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stuffed artichokes in advance and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake them. This is a great make-ahead option for a dinner party or special occasion.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Italian Stuffed Artichokes in individual bowls or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs. The vibrant colors of the artichokes and tomatoes make for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Italian Stuffed Artichokes pair well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of the wine complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Italian Stuffed Artichokes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the artichokes in a covered casserole dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Italian Stuffed Artichokes contains approximately 250 calories. This dish is a satisfying and flavorful option for a special meal.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Italian Stuffed Artichokes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The breadcrumbs and cheese in the stuffing mixture contribute to the carbohydrate content of this dish.

Fats

Italian Stuffed Artichokes are a moderately high-fat dish, with each serving containing approximately 10 grams of fat. The butter and cheese in the stuffing mixture contribute to the fat content of this dish.

Proteins

Each serving of Italian Stuffed Artichokes contains approximately 8 grams of protein. The cheese in the stuffing mixture is a good source of protein in this dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Italian Stuffed Artichokes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. Artichokes are also rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

Alergens

Italian Stuffed Artichokes contain dairy (cheese) and gluten (breadcrumbs), so individuals with dairy or gluten allergies should avoid this dish.

Summary

Italian Stuffed Artichokes are a delicious and nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This dish is a flavorful and satisfying option for a special dinner or gathering.

Summary

Italian Stuffed Artichokes are a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special dinner or gathering. This dish is filled with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and tomatoes, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy this classic Italian preparation for a memorable meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Italian Stuffed Artichokes. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was strolling through the bustling farmers' market in my small town. As I wandered past the rows of vibrant produce and aromatic herbs, I spotted a stand selling the most beautiful artichokes I had ever seen.

The farmer who was manning the stand caught my eye and beckoned me over. He explained that these artichokes were freshly picked that morning and were perfect for stuffing. Intrigued, I decided to purchase a few and asked him for his best stuffing recipe.

The farmer's eyes lit up as he began to describe his family's traditional recipe for Italian Stuffed Artichokes. He explained that it was a dish passed down through generations, and that each family had their own unique twist on the recipe. I was captivated by his story and knew that I had to try it for myself.

That evening, I set to work in my kitchen, carefully following the farmer's instructions. I started by trimming the artichokes and removing the tough outer leaves. I then boiled them in a large pot of water until they were tender, before draining them and allowing them to cool.

Meanwhile, I prepared the stuffing mixture. I combined breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped garlic, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil in a bowl, mixing everything together until it formed a crumbly texture. I then seasoned the mixture with salt, pepper, and a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

With the artichokes cooled and the stuffing ready, I carefully opened up the leaves of each artichoke and stuffed the mixture between them, ensuring that it reached every nook and cranny. Once all the artichokes were stuffed, I placed them in a baking dish and drizzled them with a generous amount of olive oil.

I covered the dish with foil and baked the artichokes in the oven until they were golden brown and crispy on top. The aroma that filled my kitchen was absolutely divine, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

When the artichokes were ready, I served them alongside a simple salad and a glass of crisp white wine. The first bite was pure bliss – the tender artichokes paired perfectly with the savory stuffing, creating a symphony of flavors in my mouth. I was transported back to that warm summer day at the farmers' market, and I felt a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that I had recreated a traditional family recipe with my own hands.

Since that day, Italian Stuffed Artichokes have become a staple in my kitchen. I love making them for family gatherings and special occasions, sharing the story of how I discovered the recipe with anyone who will listen. Each time I prepare them, I am reminded of the farmer who shared his family's secret with me, and I am grateful for the culinary journey that led me to this delicious dish.

In a world filled with fast food and processed meals, there is something truly special about cooking a dish from scratch – especially when it comes with a story attached. Italian Stuffed Artichokes will always hold a special place in my heart, not just for their delicious taste, but for the memories and traditions that they represent. And who knows, maybe one day I'll pass the recipe down to my own grandchildren, just like the farmer did for me.