Craving a crispy and delicious snack? Look no further than these 9 artichoke hearts Crispy Fried Artichokes, which clock in at around 390 calories per serving. Artichokes may seem like an unlikely ingredient for a fried dish, but the results are truly amazing. Whether you're looking for an impressive appetizer to share with friends, or just want a tasty snack to enjoy on your own, this recipe is sure to please.

In addition to being absolutely delicious, these crispy fried artichokes are also surprisingly healthy. Each serving contains a range of important macronutrients, including protein, fiber, and healthy fats. So if you're looking for a treat that won't completely derail your diet, you've come to the right place!

Read on to learn more about the benefits of artichokes, how to prepare this tasty dish, and some tips for making the perfect dipping sauce.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make this dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 9 artichoke hearts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Vegetable oil, for frying

To prepare the artichokes, remove the outer leaves and trim the tops. Cut the hearts into bite-size pieces, discarding any tough or fibrous portions. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). In another bowl, beat together the egg and milk. In a third bowl, combine the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dip the artichoke pieces first into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally the bread crumb mixture, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and fry the artichokes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Calories and Macronutrients

Wondering about the calorie and macronutrient content of these crispy fried artichokes? Here's what you need to know:

• calories: 390
• Protein: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 2g
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 1090mg

Overall, these artichokes are a relatively healthy snack, with a good combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. However, they are fairly high in calories and sodium, so it's best to enjoy them in moderation.

Benefits of Artichokes

In addition to being incredibly tasty, artichokes also offer a range of important health benefits. Some of the key benefits of eating artichokes include:

• High in antioxidants: Artichokes are a great source of antioxidants, which help to protect your body against damage from free radicals.
• Good for digestion: Artichokes contain a type of fiber called inulin, which can help to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
• Support liver function: Artichokes contain compounds that can help to protect and support liver function, making them an important food for anyone with liver disease.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Artichokes are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium.

Overall, artichokes are a highly nutritious and beneficial food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Fried vs. Baked Artichokes

While fried artichokes are undeniably delicious, they may not be the healthiest option. Baking artichokes is a healthier alternative that can still yield great results. Some of the pros of fried artichokes include their crispy, crunchy texture, and the fact that they're quick and easy to prepare. However, they are also high in calories, fat, and sodium, and can be tough on your digestive system if eaten too often. Baked artichokes, on the other hand, are a healthier option that still provide plenty of flavor and nutrition. They are lower in calories and fat, and can be seasoned and seasoned to taste. Ultimately, the choice between fried and baked artichokes comes down to personal preference and dietary restrictions. If you're looking for a healthier option, baked artichokes are a great choice.

Serving Suggestions

Wondering how to enjoy these delicious artichokes? Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:

• As an appetizer: Serve these artichokes with a tangy dipping sauce for a show-stopping appetizer that will impress your guests.
• As a side dish: Serve these artichokes as a flavorful side dish to your favorite main course.
• As a snack: These artichokes make a great snack on their own, or paired with a cold beer or glass of wine.

However you choose to serve them, these crispy fried artichokes are sure to be a hit!

Gluten-Free Option

If you're following a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy these crispy fried artichokes! Here's how to make a gluten-free version of the recipe:

• Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular flour.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

That's it! With these simple substitutions, you can still make a delicious and crispy batch of fried artichokes that are safe for your gluten-free diet.

Vegetarian-Friendly

Looking for a tasty vegetarian snack or appetizer? These crispy fried artichokes are a great option! In addition to being vegetarian-friendly, these artichokes are also a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. They can be enjoyed as a standalone snack, or paired with other vegetarian dishes for a hearty and satisfying meal. So whether you're a vegetarian or just looking for a tasty meat-free dish, give these crispy fried artichokes a try!

Low Carb and Ketogenic-Diet Friendly

If you're following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, you might be wondering if these crispy fried artichokes are a good choice. The answer is yes! While artichokes do contain some carbohydrates, they are also high in fiber, which can help to mitigate the effects of carbs on your blood sugar levels. In addition, the healthy fats in this recipe help to make it more suitable for a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Just be sure to watch your portion sizes, and pair these artichokes with other low-carb or ketogenic-friendly dishes. Overall, these crispy fried artichokes can be a great addition to a low-carb or ketogenic diet, as long as they are enjoyed in moderation.

Picky Eater Approved

If you're cooking for picky eaters, you might be worried about whether or not they'll enjoy these artichokes. However, the crispy and flavorful nature of this dish means that even the most finicky eaters will be won over! In addition, the healthy and nutritious nature of this dish means that you can feel good about offering it to your family, even if they tend to be picky eaters. So if you're looking for a dish that's sure to please everyone at the table, give these crispy fried artichokes a try!

Making the Perfect Dipping Sauce

No crispy fried artichokes are complete without a tasty dipping sauce to go along with them. Here's how to make a simple and delicious dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with this recipe:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Simply whisk together all of the ingredients in a small bowl, and serve alongside your hot and crispy artichokes. It's that easy!