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Artichokes a La Polita

4.0 · 2 reviewsRecipe card by ElmotooEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
GreekEuropeanVegan< 4 Hours
Artichokes a La Polita

Total time

75 min

Servings

4

Calories

739.5

Category

Vegetable

Experience the authentic flavors of Greece with this traditional Artichokes a la Polita recipe. This classic vegan dish features tender artichoke hearts braised in a fragrant lemon-dill sauce with carrots, potatoes, and pearl onions. Perfect as a light main course or an elegant side dish, this healthy Mediterranean meal captures the essence of spring in every bite.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

  • 8 artichokes
  • 1 lemon
  • 1/2 potato
  • 5 carrots
  • 2 spring onions
  • 4 olive oil
  • 1 fresh dill

Method

  1. Slice the stem of the artichokes and remove the outer leaves. Carefully remove core ('choke') including fuzzy/prickly stuff of artichoke Rub each artichoke with a lemon and put all of them in bowl full of water. You will be left with just the 'heart'.

  2. Cut the potatoes and the spring onions in medium sized slices.

  3. Slice the carrots and saute them together briefly with the spring onions in a saucepan with the oil.

  4. Add the artichokes and the potatoes, the dill, the lemon juice, salt, pepper and enough water to cover them. Allow to cook, stirring occasionally, for 1/2 hour or until tender.

  5. Remove from pan with slotted to spoon to serving platter; discarding dill. Sprinkle with fresh dill, salt & pepper.

Cook's notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the most vibrant, zesty flavor.
  • Rub the artichokes with lemon halves immediately after trimming to prevent them from oxidizing and turning brown.
  • Add the dill at the very end of the cooking process to maintain its bright green color and fresh aroma.
  • Ensure the pearl onions are peeled thoroughly to allow the sauce to penetrate during the braising process.

Easy swaps

  • If fresh artichokes are unavailable, you can substitute with high-quality canned or frozen artichoke hearts (rinsed and drained).
  • Leeks can be used as a delicious alternative to pearl onions for a milder onion flavor.
  • Add a splash of dry white wine to the braising liquid for an extra layer of depth and sophistication.
  • Swap Yukon Gold potatoes for waxy baby potatoes to keep the dish texture firm.

Frequently asked

What does 'a la Polita' mean?

The term 'a la Polita' refers to a style of cooking from Constantinople (Istanbul), typically involving a delicate, lemony vegetable stew.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Artichokes a la Polita is naturally gluten-free as it uses no flour or thickeners, relying instead on the starch from the potatoes.

Can I eat this dish cold?

Absolutely! It is traditionally served warm or at room temperature, but many find it refreshing and delicious served cold as part of a meze platter.

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