Stuffed artichokes

Stuffed Artichoke Recipe with Garlic and Parmesan

If you're looking for a healthy, delicious, and flavorful dish, stuffed artichokes are the perfect choice! This recipe is not just an explosion of flavors, but also an opportunity to bring a rare yet incredibly beneficial ingredient to your table. The artichoke, with its rich leaves and succulent stem, is a plant appreciated not only for its unique aroma but also for its nutritional properties. Preparation time: 20 minutes. Cooking time: 40 minutes. Total time: 1 hour. Servings: 3.

A brief story about artichokes

Originating from the Mediterranean regions, artichokes have been cultivated and appreciated for thousands of years. In ancient times, they were considered a delicacy, consumed by nobles and emperors. Besides their delicate taste, artichokes are known for their liver benefits, possessing antioxidant and detoxifying properties. Therefore, not only do you indulge your taste buds, but choosing artichokes is also a wise choice for your health.

Necessary ingredients

- 3 fresh artichokes
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- A bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
- 2-3 tomatoes, sliced (optional, but recommended)

Preparing the artichoke

1. Cleaning the artichoke: Start by cleaning the 3 artichokes. Cut off the long stems and remove the fibrous leaves, keeping only the tender leaves inside. This step is essential for achieving a pleasant texture and allowing the filling to penetrate well. Peel the stems and chop them finely, as they will be used in the filling.

2. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the chopped garlic, parsley, salt, and chopped artichoke stems. Make sure the ingredients combine well. This filling will add flavor and zest to your dish.

3. Stuffing the artichoke: Using a small spoon or your fingers, fill each artichoke with the garlic and parsley mixture. Pack the filling in well, being careful not to break the delicate leaves.

4. Cooking the artichoke: In a pot, add a little water and a tablespoon of olive oil, then place the stuffed artichokes inside. If desired, you can add the tomato slices alongside the artichokes for extra flavor and color. Cover the pot with a lid and cook on low heat. It is important to check periodically if there is still water in the pot, adding a little if necessary. Cooking on low heat will allow the artichokes to become well infused.

5. Serving: After about 40 minutes, when the artichokes are tender and the filling is well cooked, you can remove them from the heat. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top and let it melt slightly. Serve the artichoke warm, alongside a green salad or even a slice of toasted bread.

Cooking tips and tricks

- Choose fresh artichokes: Buy artichokes that have tight, firm leaves. Avoid those with yellowed or dry leaves, as they won’t have the same delicious taste.

- Check for doneness: Not all artichokes cook the same, so it’s good to check if they are tender, especially at the base of the leaves. They should be easy to pull apart and have a juicy texture.

- Variations: You can experiment with the filling by adding ingredients like chopped nuts, feta cheese, or even a few olives for a different taste. You can also replace parsley with basil or mint for a fresh note.

Nutritional benefits

Artichokes are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals such as magnesium and potassium. They also contain antioxidants that can help protect the liver and improve digestion. So, not only do you enjoy a tasty dish, but you also get your necessary nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

- How can I tell when the artichoke is ready? Try pulling off a leaf from the outside; if it comes off easily, then the artichoke is cooked.

- Can I use canned artichokes? Yes, you can use canned artichokes, but the taste and texture will not be as good as fresh ones.

Delicious combinations

Stuffed artichokes pair excellently with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade. Additionally, alongside a grilled fish dish or a quinoa salad, you will have a healthy and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, stuffed artichokes are a dish that brings together health and flavor in a unique way. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and their feedback will surely bring you many smiles! So, grab some artichokes and dare to experiment! Enjoy your meal!