If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious, this Grilled Artichokes with Garlic Aioli Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, smoky artichokes kissed by the grill pair perfectly with a garlicky, creamy aioli that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s a recipe that brings out the best in simple ingredients through grilling magic and vibrant flavors, making it an irresistible starter or side for any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are beautifully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in this dish. Freshness and proper seasoning are key here.
- 4 fresh artichokes: The star of the show, fresh artichokes offer a hearty texture and earthy flavor perfect for grilling.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the artichokes caramelize on the grill.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the artichokes and prevents them from browning.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a punch of savory, aromatic flavor both in the marinade and the aioli.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the garlic aioli that complements the smoky artichokes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
How to Make Grilled Artichokes with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Artichokes
Start by rinsing your artichokes under cold water to remove any grit. Trim the top inch off each artichoke along with the stems to create a stable base for grilling. This step also helps the heat penetrate more evenly while cooking.
Step 2: Remove Tough Outer Leaves
Peel away the tough outer leaves until you reach the tender, more pliable inner leaves. This prepares the artichokes for marination and ensures that every bite will be enjoyable rather than chewy.
Step 3: Marinate with Garlic and Lemon
In a mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and minced garlic. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the artichokes. The oil helps crisp the edges while the lemon and garlic infuse bright, savory notes.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 375°F. Place the marinated artichokes on the grill and cook for 25 to 30 minutes until the leaves are tender and have beautiful char marks. Make sure to rotate them occasionally to cook evenly and develop that irresistible smoky flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Aioli
While the artichokes are grilling, whip up the garlic aioli by mixing mayonnaise with minced garlic and a touch of lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. This creamy dip is the perfect companion, adding cool and zesty contrast to the warm, grilled artichokes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the grilled artichokes hot alongside the garlic aioli. The tender, smoky artichoke leaves dipped into the rich, garlicky sauce create a simple yet deeply satisfying flavor combination you’ll keep coming back to.
How to Serve Grilled Artichokes with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled over the plate add a pop of color and fresh aroma that lift the dish. A wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to add a little extra zing if they desire.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with light, summery sides such as a crisp green salad, crusty bread to soak up any leftover aioli, or even grilled shrimp for a fuller meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the grilled artichoke halves on a large platter surrounded by small bowls of garlic aioli. You can also serve the leaves individually alongside toothpicks for easy finger food. The rustic, char-marked artichokes make an inviting centerpiece for your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled artichokes can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the garlic aioli separately to keep it fresh and creamy.
Freezing
While artichokes don’t freeze well once grilled because they may lose texture, you can freeze the garlic aioli in a small container for up to 1 month and thaw it gently in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To reheat grilled artichokes, warm them gently in a preheated oven or on the grill for a few minutes to restore some of their smoky char without drying them out. Serve immediately with freshly stirred aioli for best results.
FAQs
Can I use canned or jarred artichokes for this recipe?
Fresh artichokes are preferred here because they hold up well on the grill and offer a satisfying texture. Canned or jarred artichokes tend to be too soft and delicate for grilling but can be enjoyed with the garlic aioli in other dishes.
How do I know when the artichokes are done grilling?
The artichokes are done when the leaves are tender enough to pull off easily and the bases feel soft when pierced with a knife. The char marks and smoky aroma are good signs that they’re ready to enjoy.
Is the garlic aioli spicy?
No, the garlic aioli is creamy and flavorful but not spicy. The garlic adds a savory kick without heat, making it approachable for all palates.
Can I prepare the marinade and aioli ahead of time?
Absolutely! The marinade and aioli can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill and serve.
What can I serve instead of mayonnaise for the aioli?
If you prefer a lighter or vegan option, you can substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or even Greek yogurt. Just adjust seasoning to taste to keep that creamy garlicky goodness.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Grilled Artichokes with Garlic Aioli Recipe will elevate your appetizer game to a whole new level. It’s simple enough to prepare but packed with flavor, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a favorite around your table!
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Grilled Artichokes with Garlic Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe features fresh artichokes grilled to perfection and served with a flavorful garlic aioli. The artichokes are trimmed, marinated in a zesty olive oil and lemon mixture, then grilled until tender and charred for a smoky flavor. The garlic aioli provides a creamy, tangy complement, making it a delightful appetizer or side dish perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Artichokes
- 4 fresh artichokes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Aioli
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (divided between marinade and aioli)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lemon (for aioli, separate from marinade lemon juice)
Instructions
- Prepare Artichokes: Rinse artichokes thoroughly under cold water. Trim about the top inch of each artichoke and cut off the stems to create a stable base for grilling.
- Remove Outer Leaves: Peel away the tough outer leaves until you reach the more tender leaves inside to ensure better texture and easier eating.
- Marinate Artichokes: In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Brush this mixture generously over the trimmed artichokes to infuse flavor.
- Grill Artichokes: Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated artichokes on the grill and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the artichokes are tender and have a nice charred surface.
- Make Garlic Aioli: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise with the remaining minced garlic and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Season with salt to taste and mix well to create a creamy, tangy aioli.
- Serve: Plate the grilled artichokes while hot, accompanied by the homemade garlic aioli for dipping, enhancing each bite with a punch of flavor.
Notes
- Choose fresh artichokes with tight leaves and a fresh green color for the best flavor and texture.
- You can parboil the artichokes for 5-10 minutes before grilling to reduce cooking time.
- If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can be adapted to a grill pan on the stovetop.
- Adjust garlic quantity in aioli according to your preference for spice intensity.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
