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30-Minute Healthy Baked Parmesan Artichokes

Helen T. Patterson
Tender artichoke hearts are coated in garlicky olive oil, topped with a zesty breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, and baked until golden and crisp.
This easy dish is bursting with flavor, high in fiber, and perfect as a side, appetizer, or light vegetarian main course.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian-Inspired
Servings 4

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 Small Mixing Bowl
  • 1 baking dish (9x13-inch recommended)
  • 1 Spoon (for mixing and drizzling)
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup 60 g olive oil
  • 3 cans 14 oz each artichoke hearts, rinsed and drained
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

For the Seasoned Breadcrumbs:

  • 1/2 cup 50 g plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup 45 g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon 15 g fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup 60 g dry white wine (such as pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and positioning the rack in the middle to ensure even heat circulation.
    While the oven warms, lightly coat the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish with a thin layer of olive oil or nonstick spray.
    This will help prevent the artichoke hearts from sticking and allow them to develop a light crisp on the bottom during baking.
    Mix the Seasoned Breadcrumbs: In a small mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, lemon juice, kosher salt, and white wine.
    Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and crumbly. The wine and lemon juice will add a bright, zesty flavor while the cheese gives richness.
    This breadcrumb mixture should be slightly damp but not soggy, making it perfect for crisping in the oven. Set aside until ready to use.
    Infuse the Olive Oil with Garlic: In a separate bowl, stir together the minced garlic and olive oil until well combined.
    This simple step ensures the garlic flavor disperses evenly and infuses the oil, which will later coat the artichoke hearts.
    Allow the mixture to sit for 1–2 minutes if possible—this brief resting time lets the garlic oils release and intensify in flavor.
    Layer the Garlic Oil in the Baking Dish: Spoon about half of the garlic-infused oil into the prepared baking dish.
    Use the back of the spoon to spread it evenly over the bottom, creating a fragrant base layer.
    This not only seasons the artichokes from below but also prevents them from drying out during baking.
    Arrange the Artichoke Hearts: Rinse and drain the canned artichoke hearts, then gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove excess moisture (this prevents sogginess).
    Place the artichoke hearts into the baking dish in an even, single layer. Try not to overcrowd them, as spacing allows heat to circulate and promotes better browning.
    Coat with Remaining Garlic Oil and Spices: Drizzle the rest of the garlic-infused olive oil evenly over the top of the artichoke hearts.
    Make sure each piece has a light coating for maximum flavor.
    Sprinkle the red pepper flakes across the artichokes for a gentle kick of heat—adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
    Add the Seasoned Breadcrumb Topping: Evenly sprinkle the prepared breadcrumb mixture over the artichoke hearts, covering them generously.
    Try to distribute the topping in a uniform layer so each bite has a balanced combination of crisp breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and fresh herbs.
    Bake Until Golden and Crisp: Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the artichokes are heated through and the breadcrumb topping has turned golden brown and crunchy.
    For extra crispness and deeper color, switch the oven to broil for the last 45–60 seconds—but watch carefully, as breadcrumbs can burn very quickly.
    Cool Briefly and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the artichoke hearts rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
    This short cooling time allows the topping to firm up slightly, making the pieces easier to serve without falling apart.
    Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired, then serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or light vegetarian main course.

Notes

  • This baked artichoke hearts recipe is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.
  • Canned artichokes are the most convenient choice, but frozen varieties also work well if thawed and dried thoroughly.
  • The garlic, lemon, and Parmesan give a wonderful balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors, while the breadcrumb topping creates a satisfying crunch.
  • For extra color and texture, a quick broil at the end makes the topping beautifully golden.
  • Leftovers keep well for a few days and can easily be reheated, making this dish meal-prep friendly and versatile.