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Artichokes Steamed in the Microwave

I love fresh artichokes but did not like how long they took to steam until I discovered this procedure. 3 artichokes done in 11 minutes! How easy and quick is that!? This can also be a prelude to grilled or roasted artichokes if you steam half the amount of time in the microwave and then proceed with the other recipes. Great timesaver!

5.0 · 10 reviewsRecipe card by Penny StettiniusEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
Low ProteinVeganLow CholesterolHealthyMicrowave< 30 Mins
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Artichokes Steamed in the Microwave — a vegan Vegetable recipePin it

Total time

16 min

Servings

1

Calories

63

Category

Vegetable

Looking for the fastest way to prepare a healthy vegetable side dish? These microwave-steamed artichokes are a game-changer for busy weeknights. Perfectly tender, nutrient-dense, and completely vegan, this method removes the hassle of boiling while preserving the delicate flavor of the artichoke.

Ingredients

Makes 1 serving

  • 3 artichokes
  • 1/4 water
  • 1/2 lemon

Method

  1. Trim the artichokes by cutting off the stem and cutting off the tips of the leaves. *I often cut them in half, lengthwise, and scoop out the choke but you can skip this step.

  2. Rub the lemon over all the cut parts of the artichokes so it does not brown.

  3. Place all 3 of the artichokes upside down in a microwaveable dish with a tight fitting lid. *Try a dinner or salad plate on top of your dish if you do not have a lid that exactly fits.

  4. *I place them upside down so the water is not collected in the artichokes but they can be placed right side up and then squeezed out later.

  5. Add the water and cover.

  6. Cook on high for 11 minutes. Check at about 9 minutes since all ovens are not the same, and pierce the hearts with a fork. If they are soft they are done.

  7. Drain and serve.

Cook's notes

  • Trim the sharp tips of the artichoke leaves with kitchen shears for a better eating experience.
  • Always wash the artichoke thoroughly under cold running water before steaming.
  • The artichoke is done when the base is tender and a knife can easily pierce the heart.
  • Let the artichoke rest for 2-3 minutes after microwaving to allow the steam to finish the cooking process.

Easy swaps

  • Instead of water, add a splash of white wine or vegetable broth to the steaming dish for extra flavor.
  • Add a clove of smashed garlic or a sprig of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the bowl for aromatic infusion.
  • Swap lemon juice for a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar if you prefer a different tang.

Frequently asked

How long does it take to steam an artichoke in the microwave?

It takes approximately 10 to 12 minutes to steam a medium-sized artichoke, depending on the wattage of your microwave.

Is microwaving artichokes healthy?

Yes! Microwave steaming is actually one of the best ways to cook vegetables as it uses minimal water, helping to retain the artichoke's vitamins and antioxidants.

How do I know when the artichoke is fully cooked?

You can test for doneness by pulling on one of the outer leaves; if it pulls away easily, or if a knife slides into the stem base with no resistance, it is ready.

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