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Air Fryer Artichoke Hearts With Lemon - Crispy, Bright, and Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans (14 oz each) artichoke hearts, drained and well patted dry, or one 12–14 oz jar of marinated artichokes (drained)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1–2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (to taste)
  • Optional add-ons: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, chopped parsley
  • For dipping (optional): aioli, garlicky yogurt sauce, or lemony tahini

Method
 

  1. Prep the artichokes: Drain the artichoke hearts thoroughly. If using canned in water, pat them very dry with paper towels. If using marinated, drain off excess oil. Drier artichokes get crisper.
  2. Halve or quarter: If the hearts are large, halve or quarter them so they have more surface area to crisp. Smaller pieces cook more evenly.
  3. Season: In a bowl, toss the artichokes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the lemon zest and toss again so it clings to the oil-coated surfaces.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Preheating helps them crisp instead of steam.
  5. Arrange in the basket: Place the artichokes in a single layer with a little space between pieces. Work in batches if needed. Overcrowding leads to soggy results.
  6. Air fry: Cook for 10–14 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the pieces halfway through. They’re ready when the edges are deep golden and the centers are tender.
  7. Finish with lemon: Transfer to a bowl, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot artichokes, and toss. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon as needed.
  8. Optional upgrades: Sprinkle with Parmesan for a savory finish, add red pepper flakes for heat, or shower with chopped parsley for freshness.
  9. Serve: Enjoy immediately while crisp, with your favorite dip or on top of greens, grain bowls, or pasta.