Artichokes With Saffron And Almonds Recipes

ARTICHOKES WITH GARLIC SAFFRON SAUCE

Steps:

• Cut off the stems of the artichokes with a stainless-steel knife, break off the tough outer leaves, and cut off the top fourth of each artichoke. Snip off the tips of the remaining artichoke leaves with scissors and rub the cut edges with the lemon half. Arrange the artichokes upright in a microwave-safe dish, add 1 inch water and the garlic, and cover the dish tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap. Microwave the artichokes at high power (100%) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bases are tender.
• While the artichokes are cooking, in a blender blend together 3 tablespoons warm water, the vinegar, the orégano, the saffron, the sugar, and the oil. Transfer the cooked artichokes to 2 plates. Peel the garlic, in the blender purée it with the vinegar mixture until the mixture is smooth, and stir in the parsley and salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the sauce to a bowl and serve it with the artichokes.

ARTICHOKES BRAISED WITH SAFFRON, BLACK OLIVES AND ALMONDS

Steps:

• 1. Trim the artichokes. If using mediums, quarter them lengthwise. Place them in a bowl of acidulated water (water with a little vinegar, lemon or lime juice) to prevent discoloration. Drain. 2. Cook the artichokes, garlic, red pepper flakes, saffron, orange zest, salt, olive oil and water over medium heat in a large, covered skillet until the artichokes are tender, about 15 minutes. Shake the pan from time to time to stir the contents. If necessary, add a little more water to keep the bottom covered. 3. When the artichokes are easily pierced with a knife, remove the lid and raise the heat to high. Cook, stirring, until only a thin coating of liquid remains on the bottom of the pan, about 3 minutes. 4. Add the orange juice, olives, almonds and parsley, and cook, stirring, just until they are heated through. Serve warm. Each serving: 177 calories; 3 grams protein; 10 grams carbohydrates; 4 grams fiber; 15 grams fat; 2 grams saturated fat; 0 cholesterol; 399 mg. sodium.