Fresh artichokes paired with a tangy lemon-yogurt dip offer a delightful appetizer or side dish that’s both healthy and flavorful. The tender leaves and heart of the artichoke, when dipped into this creamy sauce, create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-Rich: Artichokes are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins, making them a wholesome choice for any meal.
- Simple Preparation: Despite their gourmet appeal, artichokes are easy to prepare, and the accompanying dip comes together in minutes.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve this dish as an appetizer, snack, or side, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh artichokes
- Greek yogurt
- Fresh lemon juiceGreen Valley Lactose Free+5Lemon Blossoms+5QueRicaVida.com+5
- Dijon mustardWeelicious+1Green Valley Lactose Free+1
- Kosher saltWeelicious
- Optional: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor
Directions
- Prepare the Artichokes: Trim the top quarter and the stem of each artichoke. If the leaves have prickly ends, snip them off with scissors.Weelicious
- Steam the Artichokes: Fill a pot with about 2 inches of water and bring to a boil. Place the artichokes stem-side down in a steamer basket over the boiling water. Cover and steam for approximately 30 minutes, or until the leaves pull away easily and the base is tender when pierced with a knife.Weelicious
- Prepare the Lemon-Yogurt Dip: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and kosher salt until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Arrange the steamed artichokes on a serving platter alongside the lemon-yogurt dip. Enjoy by dipping the tender parts of the leaves into the sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 5 minutes.Latest news & breaking headlines+3Weelicious+3Dishes on the DL+3
- Cooking Time: About 30 minutes.
Variations
- Grilled Artichokes: After steaming, halve the artichokes and grill them for a smoky flavor. This adds a delightful charred taste that complements the lemon-yogurt dip.
- Herb-Infused Dip: Incorporate fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or mint into the yogurt dip for an added layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dip for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover artichokes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The lemon-yogurt dip can be refrigerated separately in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat the artichokes, steam them for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. The dip is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
How do you eat an artichoke?
To eat an artichoke, pull off the outer leaves, dip the base into the sauce, and scrape the tender part off with your teeth. Continue until all leaves are consumed, then remove the fuzzy choke to enjoy the heart.Weelicious+1Lemon Blossoms+1
Can I prepare the artichokes ahead of time?
Yes, you can steam the artichokes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat by steaming briefly before serving.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the dip?
You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer.
How do I choose fresh artichokes?
Look for artichokes that feel heavy for their size with tightly closed leaves and a vibrant green color.Weelicious
Is it necessary to trim the artichoke leaves?
Trimming the prickly ends of the leaves makes them easier and more pleasant to eat, but it’s not strictly necessary.
Can I grill the artichokes instead of steaming them?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Steam them first to ensure they’re tender, then grill for a few minutes to char.
How long does the lemon-yogurt dip last?
The dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Are artichokes healthy?
Absolutely. Artichokes are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, supporting overall health.
Can I use canned artichoke hearts for this recipe?
While fresh artichokes are recommended for this dish, canned artichoke hearts can be used in the dip or other recipes.
What dishes pair well with artichokes and lemon-yogurt dip?
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a vegetarian platter with other dips and fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
Fresh artichokes with lemon-yogurt dip offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and elegance. Enjoy the process of preparing and savoring this classic pairing.
PrintFresh Artichokes with Lemon-Yogurt Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These fresh steamed artichokes are tender and flavorful, served with a bright and creamy lemon-yogurt dip. It’s a simple and healthy appetizer or side dish that feels fancy but is easy to make at home. Great for spring and summer gatherings!
Ingredients
For the Artichokes:
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4 large fresh artichokes
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1 lemon, halved
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2 garlic cloves, smashed
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Salt, for the water
For the Lemon-Yogurt Dip:
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1 cup plain Greek yogurt
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small garlic clove, finely minced
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Artichokes:
Trim the tops of the artichokes and snip the tips of the outer leaves with kitchen scissors. Cut off the stem so they sit flat. Rub all cut surfaces with a halved lemon to prevent browning. -
Steam the Artichokes:
Fill a large pot with a couple inches of water. Add the smashed garlic and lemon halves. Place a steamer basket in the pot and add the artichokes, stem-side down. Cover and steam for 30–40 minutes, or until the outer leaves pull away easily. -
Make the Dip:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve. -
Serve:
Place steamed artichokes on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature with the lemon-yogurt dip on the side. To eat, pull off the leaves, dip, and scrape the soft flesh with your teeth.
Notes
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You can make the dip a day ahead for more flavor.
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Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an herby twist.
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Don’t forget to remove the fuzzy choke before eating the heart!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 artichoke with 1/4 cup dip
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 3mg
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