Sauteed Artichoke Hearts – Finger food

If you and your family are looking for healthy alternatives to Game Day snacks, these could be it! Sauteed Artichoke Hearts are the perfect finger food to serve at any party!
This trip to Trader Joe’s I picked up Frozen Artichoke Hearts. When I was in California visiting my mom one of the nights we ate home they made these Artichoke Hearts.
See also: What Does Artichoke Taste Like?
It was cheap, easy, and really good! I wasn’t even sure I liked artichoke hearts. You probably aren’t sure either. Most people who eat artichokes have them around the holidays for their family members stuffed artichokes.
Those are good but you don’t eat the actual shell of the artichoke which I never understood.
Anyways, this is super easy to make which of course is the only way to go when you live a busy schedule. I think that is the beauty of frozen vegetables. I wouldn’t normally go with frozen over fresh but when it comes to Artichoke Hearts, that’s the way to go.
After some research online, I have found that many people who try different brands of Artichoke Hearts prefer the Trader Joe’s over other competitors in super markets. This is because they stay fresh tasting and tender.
You can serve these Artichoke Hearts as a side dish to your meal, change it up. Or go for an appetizer while you are waiting for everything to cook. I’m sure these would also be delicious roasted with a little bit of extra virgin olive oil, lemon and parsley but today I decided to Sauté them in a pan.
I’m excited to find new ways to use artichoke hearts in recipes perhaps a stew, soup, or even a dip because they are really starting to grow on me. Now be careful if you are looking to make artichokes after reading this!
Don’t just get any brand as the results may not be the same. If you are a Trader Joe’s fan add this to your shopping list and keep it in your freezer for simple, easy and delicious meals.
What Are Artichoke Hearts?
Before we dive into the sauteing process, let’s first understand what artichoke hearts are. Artichokes are thistle-like vegetables known for their tender, flavorful hearts. The heart of the artichoke is the meaty, edible portion found at the base of the leaves and is highly prized in culinary applications for its delicate taste and texture.
Nutritional Benefits Of Sauteed Artichoke Hearts
Beyond their delectable taste, artichoke hearts are packed with nutrients. They are low in calories but high in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Incorporating sauteed artichoke hearts into your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.
How to Prepare Artichoke Hearts for Sauteing
Now that you’re eager to get started, let’s go through the steps to prepare artichoke hearts for sauteing:
Ingredients:
- Fresh or canned artichoke hearts (if using fresh, you’ll need to trim and prepare them)
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic (optional, but highly recommended for flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon juice (for added brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Trimming Fresh Artichoke Hearts:
- If you’re using fresh artichokes, start by trimming away the tough outer leaves until you reach the tender inner leaves.
- Cut off the top third of the artichoke and trim any remaining tough bits from the base.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the fuzzy choke (the inedible part) from the center of the artichoke heart.
- Preparing Canned Artichoke Hearts:
- If using canned artichoke hearts, drain and rinse them under cold water to remove any excess brine or marinade.
- Sauteing Process:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Once the oil is hot, add the prepared artichoke hearts to the skillet in a single layer.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust on one side.
- Flip the artichoke hearts and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they are evenly browned and crispy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing zing.
- Optionally, add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for a flavor boost.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the sauteed artichoke hearts to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- They are now ready to be enjoyed hot as a side dish or incorporated into your favorite recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering how to serve your sauteed artichoke hearts? Here are some mouthwatering ideas:
- As an Appetizer:
- Serve them with a side of aioli or garlic dip for a flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests.
- In Pasta Dishes:
- Toss them with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
- On Pizza:
- Use them as a topping for homemade pizza along with spinach, feta cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- In Salads:
- Add them to a salad with mixed greens, roasted red peppers, olives, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
- In Sandwiches:
- Layer them in a ciabatta bread sandwich with grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese, and pesto for a gourmet lunch option.
Tips for Success
To ensure your sauteed artichoke hearts turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan to prevent sticking and achieve even browning.
- Do not overcrowd the pan. Give the artichoke hearts enough space to cook without steaming each other.
- Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. Medium-high heat is usually ideal for achieving a golden crust.
- Experiment with additional seasonings such as crushed red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese for added flavor dimensions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sauteed artichoke hearts are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this versatile dish can be adapted to suit any occasion. Remember to embrace creativity in the kitchen and have fun experimenting with different ingredients and serving styles. So go ahead, whip up a batch of sauteed artichoke hearts today and savor the goodness in every bite!
Sauteed Artichoke Hearts are not just a dish; they’re a culinary experience that you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Incorporate them into your cooking repertoire and watch as they become a favorite among your loved ones.