Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie High Fiber

Artichoke

Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus Allergen-Free
artichoke

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Asteraceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Spring, Early Summer
  • Source Artichoke plant

The Forktionary Angle

"The ancient thistle turned culinary delight, known for its unique 'artichoke heart' and the sweet-bitter taste it imparts."

Definition

A thistle-like vegetable prized for its edible flower bud and heart, often steamed or roasted.

Sensory Profile

TasteMildly bitter, slightly sweet, nutty, umami
TextureTender, fibrous, creamy (heart)
AromaEarthy, slightly herbaceous
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Production

Italy is the world's leading producer of artichokes.

Optimal Storage

Keep fresh artichokes refrigerated in a plastic bag for up to a week.

Unique Compound

Contains cynarin, which makes water and subsequent foods taste sweet.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 medium artichoke (120g)
Calories47 kcal
Total Fat0.2 g
Saturated Fat0.05 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein3.3 g
Total Carbohydrate10.5 g
Dietary Fiber5.4 g
Total Sugars1.0 g
Calcium44 mg
Iron1.28 mg
Potassium343 mg

Chef’s Secret

To prevent oxidation and retain color, rub cut surfaces with lemon. Cooking with lemon also helps remove bitterness.

Substitutions

Best Match

Asparagus

1:1

Similar flavor profile and texture in many cooked applications.

Cardoons

1:1

Botanical cousin with a very similar, though stronger, bitter flavor.

Hearts of Palm

1:1

Good for texture in salads, less pronounced flavor.

Brussels Sprouts

1:1

Offers a similar slightly bitter, green vegetable note when roasted.

Buying Guide

Choose heavy, firm artichokes with tightly closed leaves.

Flavor Pairings

Lemon garlic butter olive oil mint Parmesan cheese white wine.

Recipes Using Artichoke

Artichoke From Scratch Time To Make Course

No Fuss Easy Baked Artichokes

Discover a family heirloom recipe! This unbelievably easy baked artichoke recipe, unearthed from a vintage Ocean Mist Farms card, yields tender, flavorful artichokes perfect for enjoying on their own or as stunning edible bowls for your favorite soups, stews, or dips. Imagine warm, buttery artichoke hearts, ready in under an hour – a simple yet elegant side dish or appetizer that's sure to impress.

See Complete Recipe
Presentation Taste Mood Vegetables Course

3 Cheese Artichoke Bites

Irresistible mini appetizers! These savory 3 Cheese Artichoke Bites are bursting with cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese, complemented by the delightful heartiness of artichoke. A perfect party snack or elegant appetizer, these golden-brown bites are unbelievably scrumptious and easy to make. Get the recipe now!

See Complete Recipe
Low In Something Time To Make Oven 60 Minutes Or Less

Absolutely Wonderful Cheesy Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

This award-winning recipe is a game-changer! Inspired by a beloved restaurant that closed its doors, this homemade spinach artichoke dip is so incredibly delicious, it won a local contest. Forget everything you thought you knew about this classic appetizer – this creamy, cheesy, irresistible dip will be the star of your next gathering. Prepare to be amazed!

See Complete Recipe
Tuna Fish Time To Make Number Of Servings

Antipasto

This award-winning antipasto recipe is a flavor explosion! Requested at every gathering, it's unbelievably delicious on crackers or as a stunning cold topping for brie. This vibrant medley of marinated vegetables, olives, and seafood is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or a unique addition to your charcuterie board.

See Complete Recipe
Course Vegetables Main Ingredient Dietary

Antipasto Rotini Pasta Salad

This crowd-pleasing Antipasto Rotini Pasta Salad is a guaranteed hit! Perfect for potlucks, parties, or busy weeknights, this recipe is so popular, it's always devoured. Get ready to experience a burst of Mediterranean flavors with perfectly cooked rotini pasta, vibrant vegetables, salty olives, and tangy cheeses – all tossed in a light and zesty dressing. Make a big batch – it disappears fast!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less Appetizers Course

Artichoke And Basil Dip

This vibrant artichoke and basil dip is a quick and easy appetizer perfect for any occasion! Made with creamy artichoke hearts, fresh basil, and sharp cheddar cheese (or parmesan!), this recipe is unbelievably delicious and ready in minutes. Serve with pita bread or your favorite dippers for a crowd-pleasing snack.

See Complete Recipe
Course Easy Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less

Artichoke And Green Bean Casserole

Experience a burst of flavor with this irresistible Artichoke and Green Bean Casserole! This comforting, stuffing-inspired casserole is packed with tender green beans, hearts of artichoke, and a creamy, savory sauce. Perfect for a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, yet incredibly delicious recipe!

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine Crock Pot Slow Cooker Weeknight Low Sodium

Artichoke And Lamb Shanks Crock Pot Dinner

Impress your guests with this incredibly tender and flavorful Artichoke & Lamb Shank Crock-Pot Dinner! Slow-cooked lamb shanks are infused with the bright flavors of artichoke hearts, olives, and bell peppers, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Serve over fluffy rice, creamy polenta, or orzo pasta for a complete meal. Toasted pine nuts add a luxurious touch – the perfect recipe for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Oven One Dish Meal Pasta Main Dish

Artichoke Baked Ziti

Indulge in this decadent, creamy Artichoke Baked Ziti, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal! This lighter take on a classic features artichoke hearts, ziti pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce – all without sacrificing flavor. Half the recipe still serves 6, making it ideal for smaller families or meal prepping. Get ready for a taste sensation!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Easy Low Saturated Fat Dietary

Artichoke Couscous

This vibrant and flavorful Artichoke Couscous Salad is perfect as a light lunch, elegant appetizer, or a delightful side dish. Featuring Israeli couscous (larger than regular couscous – easily found at farmers' markets!), tender artichoke hearts, and a bright lemon dressing, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to savor the Mediterranean sunshine in every bite!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Preparation Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less

Artichoke Hearts In Lemon Parsley Sauce

Elevate your dinner table with this vibrant and flavorful Artichoke Hearts in Lemon Parsley Sauce recipe! Inspired by the Williams-Sonoma "Vegetable" cookbook, this side dish is a delightful complement to lemon chicken or any protein. Using either fresh or frozen artichoke hearts (we loved Trader Joe's!), this recipe creates a luxuriously tender and zesty sauce that will leave you wanting more. Get ready for a burst of fresh lemon, fragrant parsley, and perfectly cooked artichokes in every bite!

See Complete Recipe
Gluten Free Valentines Day 5 Ingredients Or Less Holiday Event

Artichoke Hearts Wrapped In Bacon

A decadent and easy appetizer featuring juicy artichoke hearts wrapped in crispy bacon. This recipe, inspired by Dr. and Mrs. Atkins' quick and easy cookbook, is perfect for a low-carb diet or any occasion where you want a delicious and satisfying bite.

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Time To Make Low Saturated Fat Main Dish

Artichoke Pasta

A vibrant and flavorful artichoke pasta recipe, ready in under 30 minutes! This quick weeknight supper is perfect for busy evenings. Enjoy tender pasta tossed in a garlicky, lemony artichoke sauce, topped with parmesan cheese. A simple yet elegant meal the whole family will love.

See Complete Recipe
Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Mushrooms

Artichoke Spinach Salad

This vibrant and colorful Artichoke Spinach Salad is a crowd-pleaser! Inspired by a recent pitch-in party hit, this recipe features a perfectly balanced, light dressing that complements the fresh artichoke hearts and spinach. Get ready to impress your guests with this stunning and delicious salad – it's almost too pretty to eat (almost!).

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Snacks 60 Minutes Or Less Appetizers

Artichoke Brie Dip

Indulge in this irresistible Artichoke Brie Dip, the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your next gathering! Creamy brie, tender artichoke hearts, and a touch of garlic create a warm and savory dip that's simply divine. Serve with crusty bread, sourdough, or crackers for an unforgettable appetizer. This recipe is easily customizable – use marinated or water-packed artichokes, whichever you prefer. Get ready to wow your guests!

See Complete Recipe
Taste Mood Appetizers Cuisine Dinner Party

Artichokes Chilled With Champagne Vinaigrette

Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and low-fat recipe! Perfectly chilled artichoke hearts are paired with a vibrant champagne vinaigrette, creating a sophisticated and surprisingly simple dish. Perfect for a light lunch, elegant dinner party, or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Taste Mood Vegetarian Low Protein Low Calorie

Artichokes Roasted

Unlock the nutty deliciousness of roasted artichokes! This simple recipe elevates the humble artichoke with fragrant lemon, garlic, and herbs. California-grown artichokes are roasted to tender perfection, resulting in a side dish or appetizer that's both elegant and satisfying. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-follow recipe from Sunset.

See Complete Recipe
Low In Something Beginner Cook Time To Make Presentation

Bacon Wrapped Artichokes

Indulge in these irresistible bacon-wrapped artichoke hearts – the perfect melt-in-your-mouth appetizer! Simple to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a taste sensation!

See Complete Recipe