Grilled Artichokes with Herbs & Coconut Oil

I love spring and summer grilling and will cook just about anything outside. My favorite veggie is the artichoke. I can make a meal out of them. Unfortunately, they are a bit expensive so right now they are more of a luxury then a staple. But, when I can find a deal, I’m all over it. This recipe takes my favorite veggie and cooks it outside. Yes, grilled artichokes it is!

Ingredients

2 to 4 large artichokes
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil
1 Tbsp of chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, oregano, and thyme
1 large garlic clove, minced.
Salt

Directions
Place chopped herbs in a small bowl, mix with half the garlic, olive oil and coconut oil. Microwave on high heat for 30 seconds. This will allow the herbs to really bloom in flavor in the oils while getting the artichokes prepared.

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. You can either cut the artichoke in half or quarter them. This time, I cut them in quarters for more of an appetizer then a side dish.  Cut off the stem and trip the top of the choke about a half inch.   

Place the artichokes in the water, add half the minced garlic and boil until just tender at the base. 

The artichokes should not be fully cooked since you will be cooking them on the grill. Allow them to cool down, then scoop out the fuzzy part and the prickly leaves on the inside.

Turn the grill to high heat. Use a pastry brush to brush the artichoke all over herb oil. Sprinkle with salt. Place the artichoke quarters (or halves) cut-side-down in a grill basket. I use Pampered Chef’s. Cover, and grill for 5 to 10 minutes, until you have nice grill mark on the cut sides of the artichokes.

Serve alone or with a dip mix. I used a mix of Kraft Spicy Ranch dressing and sour cream. I had mine with a steak and some polenta with spinach and feta.