Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli are a perfect way to enjoy the distinct, nutty flavor of artichokes while adding a zesty twist with a homemade lemon aioli. This recipe is ideal for grilling season and makes for an impressive appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients for Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli

Artichokes: The star of the dish; they have a wonderful, slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the grill’s char. Choose large, firm artichokes for the best result.

Olive oil: Used to brush the artichokes, helping them to grill up beautifully and adding a touch of richness.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the artichokes.

Lemon: Both the juice and zest add brightness to the dish, cutting through the richness of the aioli.

Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the aioli, providing a smooth texture and rich flavor.

Garlic: Adds a punch of savory aroma and depth to the aioli.

Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tanginess and helps to emulsify the aioli.

Cayenne pepper: Just a touch gives the aioli a slight kick, which can be adjusted to suit your heat preference.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you’re short on time, steam the artichokes a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
  • Don’t skip the steaming step; it ensures the artichokes are tender and not overly charred on the grill.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper in the aioli to your taste. Leave it out for a milder sauce or add more for extra heat.
  • If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop can work in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled artichokes make a delicious starter or side dish. Pair them with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a complete meal. They also go well with a light pasta salad or fresh bread to soak up the extra aioli.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned or jarred artichokes for this recipe?
While canned or jarred artichokes are convenient, fresh ones are recommended for this recipe to achieve the best flavor and texture.
How do I know when the artichokes are done grilling?
The artichokes are done when they have nice grill marks and the leaves are tender when pulled.
Can I make the lemon aioli in advance?
Absolutely! The aioli can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This can even enhance the flavors as they meld together.

Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s warming up, you’ll want to prep your artichokes. Trim about an inch off the top of each artichoke and give the stem a little trim too. Peel away any particularly tough outer leaves. This makes them less fibrous and more enjoyable to eat.

Next, slice each artichoke in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the fuzzy choke in the center. This step is important because the choke is not pleasant to eat.

Now, on to steaming. Bring a pot of water to a boil and steam the artichokes for around 10 minutes. You want them just tender enough that they won’t take forever to cook on the grill.

While the artichokes are steaming, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Once the artichokes are steamed, brush the cut sides generously with this mixture. This not only adds flavor but also helps them get those beautiful grill marks.

Place the artichokes cut side down on the preheated grill. Let them cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for nice grill marks and a tender texture.

While the artichokes are grilling, make your lemon aioli. Combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth. The garlic and lemon really bring this sauce to life.

Once the artichokes are done, serve them warm with the lemon aioli on the side. They’re best enjoyed fresh off the grill!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight grilling.
  • The lemon aioli adds a bright and tangy flavor that complements the smokiness of the grilled artichokes.
  • Artichokes are a unique and healthy vegetable that are often underutilized, offering a fun way to explore new flavors.
  • Easily adaptable to be made ahead, so you can focus on socializing with your guests.

Ingredients

4 large artichokes
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 lemon, halved
1 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Trim the artichokes by cutting off the top inch and trimming the stem. Remove any tough outer leaves.
3. Slice each artichoke in half lengthwise and remove the choke with a spoon.
4. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and steam the artichokes for about 10 minutes until slightly tender.
5. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture onto the cut sides of the artichokes.
6. Place the artichokes cut side down on the grill. Grill for 8-10 minutes, until grill marks appear and artichokes are tender.
7. For the aioli, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth.
8. Serve the grilled artichokes warm with a side of lemon aioli for dipping.

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