Artichoke Squares
Artichoke Squares are a delightful appetizer featuring marinated artichoke hearts, savory onions, and a blend of spices, all held together with eggs and cheese. These bite-sized treats are perfect for gatherings, offering a rich, cheesy flavor with a hint of heat, appealing to both vegetarians and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain one jar of artichoke hearts and use the juice to sauté the onion and garlic.
- Chop the artichoke hearts and add them to the sautéed mixture.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and add the bread crumbs, salt, pepper, oregano, hot pepper sauce, and parsley.
- Stir in the sautéed mixture.
- Mix well and then add the shredded cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a 7 x 11-inch baking dish and bake at 325°F for 30 minutes.
- Let set for 2 hours before cutting into squares.
- Cut into 1-inch squares to serve as an appetizer or larger squares to serve as a vegetable.
- These squares can be served hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute the marinated artichoke hearts with fresh or frozen artichokes, just ensure to adjust the seasoning. If you're short on time, pre-chopped onions and garlic can streamline prep. Adjust the cheese type for different flavors; mozzarella or feta would work well. This dish can also be made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld, similar to Make Ahead Mashed Or Whipped Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Artichoke squares make a delightful appetizer for gatherings or can be served as a light main dish alongside a side salad, like a Buffet Salad Bowl. They pair beautifully with a dipping sauce, such as a garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt dressing, enhancing the flavors and adding a creamy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover artichoke squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. They can also be enjoyed cold, making them versatile for meal prep or lunchboxes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Artichoke Squares contains roughly 112 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 627mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze artichoke squares?
Yes, you can freeze artichoke squares! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then cut into squares and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or even a tangy goat cheese for a unique twist. Mixing different cheeses can also add complexity to the dish.
What can I serve with artichoke squares?
Artichoke squares are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. They also complement other appetizers well, such as a cheese platter or a selection of dips like hummus or Pumpkin Pie Dip.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).