Crispy Gratinated Artichokes with Pecorino and Breadcrumbs

Gratinated Artichokes Recipe (Carciofi al Gratin)

Introduction

Gratinated artichokes, or Carciofi al Gratin, is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that beautifully combines tender artichokes with a crispy, cheesy topping. The earthy taste of artichokes is enhanced by a mixture of breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and Pecorino cheese, creating a golden, irresistible crust that’s perfect for any meal. Whether served alongside a roasted meat dish or as a standalone vegetarian delight, this recipe brings the perfect balance of texture and flavor to your table.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Artichokes
   Begin by cleaning the artichokes thoroughly. Trim the tough outer leaves, and cut off the top portion. Trim the stems, keeping just enough to make a small base for each artichoke. Rub the cut surfaces with half a lemon to prevent browning. Once cleaned, place the artichokes into a bowl of water with lemon juice to maintain their freshness.

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2. Cook the Artichokes
   In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the artichokes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Test by pricking the base with a fork. Once done, drain the artichokes and let them cool slightly.

3. Slice the Artichokes
   After the artichokes have cooled enough to handle, carefully slice them into thin rounds. Set aside.

4. Prepare the Gratin Mixture
   In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Add two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to the mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be slightly moist but still crumbly.

5. Assemble the Dish
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (a 19×14 cm dish works perfectly for this recipe) with a small amount of olive oil. Arrange the artichoke slices in an even layer at the bottom of the dish, overlapping them slightly.

6. Top with the Gratin Mixture
   Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture over the artichokes, ensuring they are well-covered. The topping should form a nice, even crust that will bake to a golden, crispy texture.

7. Bake
   Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and crispy. For an extra touch, you can broil the gratin for the last few minutes to achieve a perfect, crunchy finish.

8. Serve
   Once baked, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The gratin should be served warm, with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

• Choosing Artichokes: For this recipe, it’s best to choose artichokes that are tender and fresh. Look for ones with tightly packed leaves and a bright green color. If the outer leaves are too tough, it may be difficult to slice them properly.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the artichokes ahead of time by cooking and slicing them, then storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.

• Vegetarian Version: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. You can enhance the flavor by adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the Pecorino for an extra cheesy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Gratinated artichokes pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Try serving them alongside grilled meats, roasted fish, or a hearty pasta dish. They also make a great addition to a Mediterranean-themed dinner spread. Their rich and savory flavor complements the freshness of salads and works as a perfect side for a cozy family meal.

Enjoy the delightful taste of Carciofi al Gratin—an easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress your guests and family alike!