Name: Grilled Globe Artichokes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces large artichokes; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup water; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; to taste Lemon juice

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There’s something magical about the taste of Grilled Globe Artichokes. I remember the first time I tried them, sitting outside at a family gathering, the summer sun warming my skin while the aroma of grilled food wafted through the air. The artichokes were tender, with a smoky flavor that paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy balsamic marinade. It was a moment I can still taste. Now, I make these artichokes at least a few times each season. Not only are they a fantastic appetizer or side dish, but they also bring a sense of joy and connection to everyone around the table. It’s like a little piece of summer on a plate.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
60 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
2 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Large Pot, Saucepan, Grater, Chef’s Knife

The Best Thing About This Grilled Globe Artichokes

Unique Flavor Profile

The first thing that makes Grilled Globe Artichokes stand out is their incredible flavor. When you grill these artichokes, the high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the leaves, resulting in a beautifully smoky and slightly sweet taste. Combined with the balsamic marinade, every bite is packed with depth and richness.

Healthy Eating

Artichokes are not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients! They’re rich in antioxidants, high in fiber, and low in calories, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy diet. I love that I can indulge in something that feels rich and savory without the guilt.

Perfect for Social Gatherings

These grilled artichokes are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a casual barbecue or a fancy dinner party, they make a perfect addition to any meal. Serving them as an appetizer sparks conversation and encourages everyone to dig in together, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere.

Versatile Serving Options

Another reason I adore Grilled Globe Artichokes is their versatility. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for potlucks or picnics. You can even pair them with various dips, from a simple olive oil drizzle to a robust garlic aioli, allowing you to customize them to your taste.

Easy Preparation

While these might seem like a gourmet dish, they are surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a little know-how, you can create a dish that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s one of my go-to recipes for impressing guests or treating myself after a long week.

Perfect for Any Season

Finally, no matter the season, grilled artichokes are always a hit. They are particularly delightful in the spring and summer, when fresh artichokes are in season, but I’ve enjoyed them throughout the year. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy winter meal, they always fit right in.

Ingredient List for Grilled Globe Artichokes

The success of Grilled Globe Artichokes lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich, tender artichokes to the robust balsamic marinade that infuses them with flavor. The combination of acidity from the vinegar, sweetness from the soy sauce, and depth from the olive oil creates a perfect balance, ensuring that every bite is satisfying and delicious.

4 large artichokes: Fresh artichokes are the star of the show. Their unique flavor and texture make them perfect for grilling. Choose artichokes that are firm with tightly packed leaves.
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the earthiness of the artichokes.
1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds depth and umami to the marinade.
1/4 cup water: This helps to balance the marinade and keep the artichokes moist during cooking.
1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps to achieve a lovely grilled texture.
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Provides a robust flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Lemon juice: A splash of freshness, it helps prevent browning and adds brightness to the flavor.

How to Assemble Grilled Globe Artichokes

Grilling Globe Artichokes is a delightful experience that allows you to engage all your senses. The process is simple, yet it yields impressive results. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time.

Start by rinsing the artichokes under running water. This helps remove any dirt and prepares them for the next steps. Look closely to see if any of the leaves are loose; if so, gently pull them off.
Next, slice off the tops of the artichokes. You want to trim about one to two inches off the top, which will expose the tender inner leaves. After trimming, cut the tips of the leaves and the stem to ensure they sit flat on the grill.
To prevent browning, rub the freshly cut ends of the artichokes with a bit of lemon juice. Not only does this help with color, but it also adds a refreshing flavor.
In a large stockpot, add two to three inches of water and place a steamer basket inside. Place the cleaned artichokes in the basket. Bring the water to a boil, then cover and let simmer. Steam the artichokes for about 20 minutes until the leaves pull away easily and the bottoms are tender.
Once they are cooked, remove the artichokes from the pot and allow them to cool. You want them cool enough to handle but still warm.
Cut each artichoke in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the choke, which is the fuzzy purple center. Be gentle during this process.
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, water, olive oil, and minced garlic. This marinade will infuse the artichokes with flavor. Place the halved artichokes in a large zip-top bag along with the marinade.
Seal the bag and ensure the marinade coats the artichokes well. Allow them to marinade for at least two hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
When you’re ready to grill, turn on your gas grill to medium heat. Lightly grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Place the artichokes cut side down on the grill grates. Grill for five to seven minutes until you see nice grill marks. Flip them over and grill for another three to four minutes. Pour the remaining marinade into the center of each artichoke for extra flavor.

Things Worth Knowing

Grilling artichokes requires patience. Make sure to steam them long enough before grilling to ensure they’re tender.
Choosing fresh artichokes is key. Look for firm ones with tightly closed leaves for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the marinating step! It’s essential for flavor infusion.
Keep the grill temperature moderate. Too hot and you might char the leaves before the insides are cooked.

Substitutions and Tips

There are always ways to enhance or modify a recipe to suit your preferences. Here are some tips for making your Grilled Globe Artichokes even better.

Storage: Store leftover grilled artichokes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze grilled artichokes. However, they may lose some texture.
Pairing: These artichokes pair beautifully with grilled meats or served as a vegetarian main dish alongside a fresh salad.
Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different marinades using flavors like lemon zest, herbs, or spicy components to match your preference.
Cooking method: If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the artichokes in the oven for a similar flavor.
Serving idea: Serve with a side of aioli or a homemade dipping sauce for added flavor.

Perfect Matches for Grilled Globe Artichokes

When it comes to serving Grilled Globe Artichokes, there are many delightful options to complement them. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Grilled meats: Pair these artichokes with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Fresh salads: A light, tangy salad can balance the richness of the artichokes.
Picnic food: These make a great addition to any picnic spread and can be served at room temperature.
Appetizers: Serve them as part of an appetizer platter alongside olives and cheeses.
Seasonal dishes: Enjoy them in the spring, when artichokes are at their peak, or grill them in the summer for outdoor gatherings.
Lunch option: Add grilled artichokes to wraps or sandwiches for a unique twist.
Storage tips: Leftover grilled artichokes can be stored and reheated, making them a great option for meal prep during the week.

FAQ

While fresh artichokes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen artichokes. Just be sure to thaw them completely and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Frozen artichokes might not have the same depth of flavor as fresh, but they can still be delicious when grilled.

To check if your artichokes are done, try pulling off one of the outer leaves. If it comes off easily, the artichokes are ready. Additionally, you can check the bottoms; they should be tender when pierced with a fork. Properly steamed artichokes should have a nice texture for grilling.

Grilled artichokes are versatile and pair well with various dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled meats, seafood, or a vibrant salad. They also make a fantastic appetizer when served with dips like aioli or a tangy vinaigrette. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your pairings!

Absolutely! You can prepare the balsamic marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This can save you time on busy days, allowing you to just grab it and marinate your artichokes when you’re ready to cook. Just give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the experience of preparing and enjoying Grilled Globe Artichokes is truly special. Their unique flavor and healthy profile make them a must-try in any culinary repertoire. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot; it’s easy and immensely rewarding. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can bring so much joy to your table.