Ahhh the artichoke. Natures perfect food. One large artichoke contains only 25 calories, no fat, 170 milligrams of potassium, and is a good source of vitamin C, folate, magnesium and dietary fiber. But, forget all of that healthy talk. Besides all of the positive nutritional aspects, they are simply delicious. Grill them my way and you’ll fall in love!
ARTICHOKE INGREDIENTS
2-4 Whole, Fresh Artichokes
Kosher Salt
4 Lemons
LEMON VINAIGRETTE INGREDIENTS
1-2 Lemons
1-2 Cloves Garlic, Minced
1 Tbl Dijon Mustard
1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Splash of any White Wine or Chardonnay
Pinch Kosher Salt
A Few Cranks of Cracked Black Pepper
Pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired
PREP THE VINAIGRETTE
Zest on lemon in a mason jar. Only use the yellow part of the lemon. After zesting, cut lemon(s) in half and squeeze the juice of the entire lemon in the jar. Add all other ingredients, put lid on jar and shake.
FOR THE ARTICHOKES
In a large pot, fill 1/4 of the pot with water. Salt the water generously. Place steamer basket on top. Fill the basket with lemon slices. Heat water to boiling.
Rinse artichokes. Snip off the pointy thorns. Cut artichokes in half. When water in pot is boiling, place face down in steamer basket.
Place lid on top and steam artichokes for 15-20 minutes or until a knife pierces the stem of the artichoke easily. When stem is tender, remove and place on a cookie sheet.
Pre-heat grill to medium high. Brush steamed artichoke halves inside and out with lemon vinaigrette dressing. Once coated, place face down on the grill. Grill flat side of artichoke for 3-5 minutes or until good grill marks are achieved. Flip over and grill another 3 minutes.
After grilling remove from heat and allow to rest under a tent of aluminum foil for 5-10 minutes. Serve with a side of lemon vinaigrette. Peel off artichoke leaves, dip in vinaigrette, and enjoy.
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
COOK TIME: 25 minutes
SERVINGS: 4
