Description
This Crispy Fried Artichoke, Arugula & Pea Salad features golden, pan-fried artichoke hearts tossed with peppery arugula and sweet green peas. It’s finished with a zesty Lemon-Za’atar Vinaigrette for a bright, restaurant-quality side dish or light main.
Ingredients
2 cans (14 oz each) quartered artichoke hearts, drained and patted very dry
1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
5 oz baby arugula
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen, thawed)
1/3 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Lemon-Za’atar Vinaigrette:
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 small shallot, minced
1 teaspoon za’atar seasoning
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Pat the drained artichoke hearts thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up.
2. Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the artichokes in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season immediately with a pinch of salt.
3. Make the vinaigrette: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced shallot, za’atar, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. In a large bowl, toss the arugula and peas with about half of the vinaigrette.
5. Transfer the dressed greens to a serving platter. Top with the warm crispy artichokes and shaved Parmesan cheese.
6. Drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette just before serving.
Notes
Moisture prevents crisping, so dry those artichokes well!
For a lighter version, air fry the artichokes at 400°F for 12-15 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Spread seasoned labneh or Greek yogurt on the plate before adding the salad for a creamy base.
Add pistachios or pine nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg