Grilled Artichokes

Fall is almost here so now is the time to take advantage of the remaining good weather and get that grill fired up for Labor Day! This simple recipe is easy to make and sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Artichokes are high in fiber and pack a whopping dose of Vitamins C, K, B-6, folate, and minerals. They are also highly antioxidant, helpful in regulating cholesterol and delicious steamed and grilled. Give this recipe a shot and let me know what you think.

Ingredients:

▪ 2 lemons
▪ 4 large artichokes
▪ 1 TBSP extra-virgin olive oil
▪ 1/4 tsp salt
▪ Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Directions: 

1. Fill a Dutch oven or large pot with water and add the juice of 1 lemon.
2. Trim leaves from the top of an artichoke. Remove the outer layer(s) of leaves from the stem end and snip all remaining spiky tips from the outer leaves.
3. Trim an inch off the bottom of the stem.
4. As each artichoke is prepared, drop it into the lemon water to prevent it from turning brown.
5. When all the artichokes are prepared, cover the pan/pot and bring to a boil. Boil until the base of the stem can be easily pierced with a fork, 12 to 15 minutes.
6. Transfer to a cutting board and let stand until cool enough to handle, about 10 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, preheat grill to medium.
8. Slice the artichokes in half lengthwise. Scoop out the choke (fuzzy part) and first few inner layers in the center until the bottom is revealed.
9. Brush each half with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper and grill the artichokes until tender and lightly charred, about 5 minutes per side.
10. Transfer to a serving platter, squeeze half a lemon over them and garnish with the remaining lemon half cut into 4 wedges.
11. Serve warm, at room temperature or chilled.

Enjoy!