Chilled Artichokes with Zesty Champagne Vinaigrette
Savor the delicate flavors of tender artichokes perfectly complemented by a bright and tangy champagne vinaigrette. This delightful dish showcases fresh ingredients and an elegant presentation, making it the ideal appetizer or light side dish for any gathering. The artichokes are expertly steamed to retain their flavor and nutrients, then chilled to enhance their refreshing taste, while the vinaigrette adds a sophisticated touch that will impress your guests. Easily prepare the artichokes and vinaigrette in advance for a stress-free culinary experience. Enjoy this vibrant dish that embodies the essence of gourmet dining right at home!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
large artichokes
2 (trimmed and steamed)
lemon
1 (cut in half)
garlic cloves
4 (bruised)
champagne vinegar
2 teaspoons (none)
fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons (freshly squeezed)
finely chopped shallot
1 teaspoon (none)
Italian dry herb seasoning mix
1/4 teaspoon (none)
extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
salt
to taste (none)
fresh ground black pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the artichokes: slice off the top inch of each artichoke and trim the stems to about 1 inch. Remove any tough outer leaves and use scissors to trim any sharp tips from the leaves.
2
In a large pot, add about 2 inches of water, the bruised garlic cloves, and the halved lemon. Bring the water to a vigorous boil.
3
Insert a rack or steamer basket into the pot, placing the artichokes stem side down into the basket. Cover the pot and steam the artichokes for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, or until the bottom is tender and the outer leaves can be easily pulled away.
4
While the artichokes are steaming, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice water.
5
Once the artichokes are steamed, carefully remove them from the pot using a large spoon and plunge them into the ice bath to halt the cooking process. Allow them to sit in the ice bath until completely cool. Drain and place them upside down in the refrigerator to remove any excess water until ready to serve (they can be prepared up to 2 days in advance).
6
For the vinaigrette, whisk together the champagne vinegar and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. Add the finely chopped shallot and Italian herb seasoning. Gradually whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until well combined. Season the vinaigrette with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. This can also be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
7
To serve, place the chilled artichokes on individual plates or in a martini glass with a small bowl of the zesty champagne vinaigrette for dipping. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chilled Artichokes with Zesty Champagne Vinaigrette?
It is a refreshing dish featuring tender steamed artichokes served cold with a bright and tangy champagne-based dressing.
How many artichokes does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for two large artichokes.
How do I prepare the artichokes for cooking?
Slice off the top inch, trim the stems to one inch, remove tough outer leaves, and snip off any sharp tips with scissors.
What aromatics are used in the steaming water?
The water is seasoned with four bruised garlic cloves and one halved lemon.
How long should the artichokes be steamed?
They should be steamed for approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
How do I know when the artichokes are fully cooked?
The bottom will be tender and the outer leaves will be easy to pull away.
What is the purpose of the ice bath?
The ice bath is used to immediately stop the cooking process and chill the artichokes.
How should I store the artichokes after the ice bath?
Drain them and place them upside down in the refrigerator to remove excess water.
How far in advance can I cook the artichokes?
The artichokes can be prepared up to 2 days in advance.
What ingredients are needed for the champagne vinaigrette?
You need champagne vinegar, fresh lemon juice, finely chopped shallot, Italian herb seasoning, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper.
How do I make the vinaigrette?
Whisk vinegar and lemon juice with shallots and herbs, then slowly whisk in the olive oil.
Can the vinaigrette be made ahead of time?
Yes, the vinaigrette can be prepared up to 5 days in advance.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve the chilled artichokes on individual plates or in a martini glass with a side bowl of vinaigrette for dipping.
Is this recipe considered a light meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a light meal and a healthy appetizer.
What type of vinegar is used in the dressing?
The recipe specifically uses champagne vinegar for its zesty flavor.
How much shallot is required for the vinaigrette?
One teaspoon of finely chopped shallot is used.
What kind of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
The recipe recommends freshly squeezed lemon juice for the vinaigrette.
How many garlic cloves are included?
Four garlic cloves are used to flavor the steaming water.
What seasoning mix is used in the dressing?
An Italian dry herb seasoning mix is used.
Is this recipe suitable for gourmet dining at home?
Yes, it is designed to embody the essence of gourmet dining with an elegant presentation.
What tags are associated with this dish?
Tags include artichokes, vegetable dish, appetizer, chilled, vinaigrette, champagne, healthy, gourmet, simple, and light meal.
How much Italian herb seasoning is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of the seasoning mix.
Should the artichokes be steamed stem side up or down?
They should be placed stem side down into the steamer basket.
How much champagne vinegar is needed?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of champagne vinegar.
How much lemon juice goes into the vinaigrette?
Two teaspoons of fresh lemon juice are required.
Are the garlic cloves chopped or left whole for steaming?
They should be bruised but not necessarily chopped.
Why is it important to trim the artichoke leaves?
Trimming the tips with scissors removes any sharp points for safer eating.
What is the calorie count for this recipe?
The specific calorie count is not provided in the recipe data.
Is this dish served warm or cold?
This dish is specifically designed to be served chilled.