๐ง๐ Artichoke Cheese Loaf: A Savory Delight ๐๐ง
Artichoke Cheese Loaf is a delectable appetizer, perfect for any gathering or snack time. This cheesy, flavorful treat is a crowd-pleaser, and its history and preparation are as interesting as its taste!
๐ History:
The exact origin of Artichoke Cheese Loaf is a bit elusive, but it’s believed to have its roots in American cuisine, particularly popular during the mid-20th century. It’s often associated with party menus and potlucks, gaining fame for its delightful blend of flavors.
๐ฅ Components:
- 1 loaf of French bread or baguette
- 1 can (14 ounces) of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
๐ฉโ๐ณ Preparation:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
2. Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread or baguette in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the soft interior to create a hollow trough.
3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy), and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.
4. Fill the Bread: Spread the artichoke cheese mixture evenly inside the bread troughs.
5. Bake: Place the filled bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Serve: Remove the Artichoke Cheese Loaf from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and then slice it into pieces for serving.
โฐ Time Required:
- Preparation: 15-20 minutes
- Baking: 15-20 minutes
- Total: Approximately 30-40 minutes
This delightful Artichoke Cheese Loaf is a delightful fusion of creamy, cheesy goodness with the subtle, earthy flavor of artichokes. It’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or just to satisfy your cheesy cravings. Enjoy! ๐ฝ๐ง๐ฅ๐
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Artichoke Cheese Loaf:
๐ Nutrition Facts (Approximate, Per Serving):
- Calories: 300-350
- Total Fat: 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6-9 grams
- Cholesterol: 20-30 milligrams
- Sodium: 500-700 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 2-3 grams
- Protein: 8-10 grams
๐ Health Information:
- Moderate Calories: The Artichoke Cheese Loaf is relatively moderate in calories, making it a suitable appetizer for most diets when consumed in moderation.
- Healthy Fats: It contains a fair amount of healthy fats from cheese and mayonnaise. However, this can contribute to the calorie count, so portion control is essential.
- Protein: This dish provides a decent amount of protein, which is important for muscle health and satiety.
- Calcium: The cheese used in the recipe is a good source of calcium, supporting bone health.
- Fiber: The bread and artichokes contribute some dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.
- Sodium: It’s worth noting that this dish can be relatively high in sodium due to cheese and mayonnaise. If you are concerned about sodium intake, consider using lower-sodium ingredients.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Artichokes are rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
As with many appetizers, moderation is key, especially if you’re concerned about your calorie or sodium intake. While this Artichoke Cheese Loaf can be a delicious treat, it’s best enjoyed in small servings as part of a balanced diet.
