Baked Italian Artichoke Hearts with Lemon Breadcrumbs

Step 1

Prep and gather all ingredients according to specifications above. Be sure to zest the lemon prior to juicing it. Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 400℉. (Use the convection setting if you have that.) Arrange a second rack at the top under the broiler.(Please see the section above in the blog post for Step-By-Step instructions with photos.)

Step 2

Make the flavored breadcrumbs: In a small skillet over medium-low heat, combine the red bell pepper, olive oil, garlic and crushed red pepper and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until starting to brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 3

Then, add the remaining breadcrumb ingredients and turn off the heat. Mix well to coat. The mixture will have a consistency similar to wet sand. Set aside.

Step 4

Prepare the artichoke hearts. Rinse them under water, then drain them and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut each heart in half lengthwise.

Step 5

Rub a little olive oil on the bottom of a baking dish large enough to hold all the artichoke halves. Then, arrange the halves, cut side up, in a single layer in the dish. Use two baking dishes if necessary.

Step 6

Combine the wine and lemon juice, then carefully pour this around the edges into the baking dish and in between the artichokes. You may not need to use all of the liquid as you do not want to immerse the artichokes, but rather just have them sit in a small amount of liquid–about ¼ of the way up. The actual amount needed will depend on the size of baking dish used. Use more or less as needed.

Step 7

Next, sprinkle the surface of each artichoke half generously with the lemon breadcrumbs, patting down gently. Top with the small cubes of butter.

Step 8

Transfer the baking dish to the middle rack of the 400℉ preheated oven and bake the artichokes for about 20 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are lightly browned.

Step 9

Then, finish the artichoke hearts under the broiler (low setting) for about 1 to 2 minutes to brown a bit more. Keep a close watch and do not walk away during this part!

Step 10

Remove from oven and serve immediately in baking dish with lemon wedges for an extra pop of flavor. Buon Appetito!