Steamed Artichokes
Steamed artichokes are a simple yet elegant dish where the whole flower bud is gently cooked in steam, often served with a dipping sauce like melted butter or vinaigrette. This preparation highlights the vegetable's natural, slightly nutty flavor and tender texture, and it's a classic way to enjoy them in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Italy and Southern France.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Steamed artichokes are low in calories, with a medium-sized one providing roughly 60 calories, and are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. They are naturally low in fat and protein, with most of their calories coming from carbohydrates.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 60 kcal |
| Protein | 3.6 g |
| Carbs | 13.5 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Fiber | 6.9 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
| Potassium | 474 mg |
| Magnesium | 50 mg |
| Vitamin C | 8.9 mg |
| Vitamin K | 14.8 mcg |
| Folate | 89 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
| Iron | 1.3 mg |
| Phosphorus | 72 mg |
Per 1 cup (120 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the artichoke is a symbol of hope and prosperity in some Mediterranean traditions. Nutritionally, it's unique for containing a high concentration of antioxidants like cynarin, which is known to support liver health and can make other foods taste sweeter.
