Sides & Appetizers
Elegant Artichokes with Saffron Tofu Sauce & Olive Tapenade
Try this gourmet Mediterranean-inspired dish: Artichokes with Saffron Tofu Sauce and Olive Caper Tapenade! With a rich, creamy saffron-infused tofu sauce and a bold olive tapenade, this recipe by Chef Healthy Henry is perfect for any elegant occasion. A plant-based, flavor-packed appetizer or side!

Ingredients
- 2 artichokes
- 14 oz silken tofu Shop on Amazon (opens in a new window)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads Shop on Amazon (opens in a new window)
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
- 2 tablespoons water
- Olive caper tapenade: 1/4 cup capers
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives Shop on Amazon (opens in a new window)
- 1/4 cup sun dried tomato
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
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Directions
- 1
Place 2 inches of water in a steamer pot and bring to a boil. Snap off the bottom stem of the artichoke (or use a knife to slice it off)Trim the prickly end of each leaf off with scissors.
- 2
Place artichokes in a steamer up side down, cover and cook over medium-high heat for 20-25 minutes or until the leaves peel off the artichoke easily and the base of the artichoke is tender when pierced with a fork.
- 3
While the artichokes steam make the sauces. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until you get a smooth texture. When the artichokes are done place them in individual bowls and have a “group” bowl available for the leaves.
- 4
When eating the large artichokes, you want to pull off the leaves and eat the “meat” off of the bottom half of each leaf, discarding the leaves into the large bowl. Once you’ve eaten all of the leaves, you will have the artichoke heart remaining.
- 5
With a knife or spoon, scrape out and discard the inedible fuzzy part (called the “choke”) covering the artichoke heart. The remaining bottom of the artichoke is the heart. Cut into pieces and dip into either sauce to eat.
- 6
Saffron Tofu: In a small bowl combine the saffron and lemon juice and let sit for about 15 minutes. In a food processor combine the lemon mixture with the rest of the ingredients and pulse until you get a smooth silky texture.
Nutrition
Per 1 serving
Estimated per serving. Actual values vary with brands, substitutions, and portion size. This is general information, not medical or nutrition advice.
Check every ingredient against your own allergies and dietary needs. See our Health & Nutrition Disclaimer.


