Artichoke And Basil Hero Recipes

ARTICHOKE AND BASIL HERO SANDWICH

Steps:

• To make the basil/parmesan mixture: (this mixture can be doubled if desired) in a blender or food processor bowl combine fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, capers, wine vinegar, mustard and garlic cloves; process until almost smooth.
• Cover and refrigerate for 8-24 hours (overnight is better!).
• Cut the bread in half lengthwise.
• Hollow out each half (leaving a 1/2-inch shell).
• Spread the prepared basil mixture over each bread half, then layer artichoke hearts (at this point you can add in cold cuts if desired) then provolone cheese, tomato then top with spinach.
• Cover with the bread top.
• Cut the sandwich crosswise into about 6-8 pieces.

ARTICHOKE-BASIL PASTA SAUCE

Steps:

• Drain artichokes, reserving marinade; set artichokes aside. In a large saucepan, saute onion and mushrooms in reserved marinade for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer., Stir in the artichokes, tomatoes, water, tomato paste, basil, sugar and salt if desired. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes or until heated through. Serve over pasta.

PASTA WITH ARTICHOKES AND BASIL

Steps:

• Cook pasta according to package directions. Immediately drain. Return pasta to pan; keep warm.
• Meanwhile, place artichoke hearts in a colander under cold running water to separate. In a large skillet cook and stir artichokes, sweet pepper, onion, and garlic in hot oil over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
• Stir in tomato and basil; cook and stir about 2 minutes more or until heated through. Add artichoke mixture to pasta. Toss gently to mix. Sprinkle each serving with Parmesan cheese. Makes 4 to 6 side-dish servings.