Best Artichoke Pesto Torta Recipes

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ARTICHOKE PESTO TORTA



Artichoke Pesto Torta image

Provided by Giada De Laurentiis

Categories     appetizer

Time 4h35m

Yield 12 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 (13 to 14-ounce) can whole artichoke hearts, rinsed well, drained, and patted dry
1 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
1 tablespoon finely grated lemon peel
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
Nonstick cooking spray
Italian parsley sprigs, for garnish
Assorted breads and crackers, to serve
Assorted cut-up fresh vegetables, to serve (such as bell peppers, cucumbers, celery, endive leaves, and carrots)

Steps:

  • Blend the artichokes, parsley, nuts, lemon peel, lemon juice, garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper in a food processor, scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally, until the artichokes are very finely chopped. With the machine running, gradually pour in 1/4 cup oil. Continue blending until the pesto is creamy. Season the pesto, to taste, with more salt and pepper.
  • Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
  • Spray a 2 to 3 cup bowl with nonstick spray. Line the bowl with plastic wrap, extending the plastic over the sides. Spread enough cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared bowl to form a 1/2-inch layer. Top with enough pesto to form a 1/2-inch layer. Repeat layering the remaining cream cheese mixture and pesto. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours and up to 2 days.
  • Invert the torta onto a platter and remove the plastic. Garnish with parsley sprigs. Serve with bread, crackers, and vegetables.

ARTICHOKE PESTO TORTA



ARTICHOKE PESTO TORTA image

Categories     Appetizer

Yield 8 servings or more

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 (13 to 14-ounce) can whole artichoke hearts, rinsed well, drained, and patted dry
1 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
1 tablespoon finely grated lemon peel
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
Nonstick cooking spray
Italian parsley sprigs, for garnish
Assorted breads and crackers, to serve
Assorted cut-up fresh vegetables, to serve (such as bell peppers, cucumbers, celery, endive leaves, and carrots)

Steps:

  • Blend the artichokes, parsley, nuts, lemon peel, lemon juice, garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper in a food processor, scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally, until the artichokes are very finely chopped. With the machine running, gradually pour in 1/4 cup oil. Continue blending until the pesto is creamy. Season the pesto, to taste, with more salt and pepper. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Spray a 2 to 3 cup bowl with nonstick spray. Line the bowl with plastic wrap, extending the plastic over the sides. Spread enough cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared bowl to form a 1/2-inch layer. Top with enough pesto to form a 1/2-inch layer. Repeat layering the remaining cream cheese mixture and pesto. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours and up to 2 days. Invert the torta onto a platter and remove the plastic. Garnish with parsley sprigs. Serve with bread, crackers, and vegetables.

Artichokes are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. One popular way to use artichokes is to make them into a pesto, which can then be used in a variety of recipes. One of the most popular recipes using artichoke pesto is the Artichoke Pesto Torta. This dish is a savory, layered dish that is perfect for any occasion.

What is Artichoke Pesto Torta:

Artichoke Pesto Torta is a layered dish that is made with artichoke pesto, cream cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. The dish is served either hot or cold and can be served as an appetizer or as a main course. The layers of the torta are made by spreading each layer of the filling on top of each other. Once all the layers are complete, the torta is baked in the oven until it is golden brown and bubbly.

Ingredients:

The ingredients for an artichoke pesto torta vary depending on the recipe. However, the main components of the dish include artichokes, cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Other ingredients that may be included in the recipe include garlic, lemon juice, pine nuts, and basil.

How to make Artichoke Pesto Torta:

The process of making an artichoke pesto torta is relatively simple. The recipe can be broken down into several steps:
1. Artichoke Pesto:
The first step in making an artichoke pesto torta is to make the artichoke pesto. The pesto is made by combining artichokes, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and basil in a food processor. The mixture is blended until it forms a smooth paste-like consistency.
2. Cream Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
The second layer of the torta is made by combining cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. This layer is spread evenly over the top of the pesto layer.
3. Repeat Layers:
The process of layering the torta continues by repeating the artichoke pesto and cream cheese and sun-dried tomato layers until the desired height of the torta is reached.
4. Bake:
Once all the layers have been added, the torta is baked in the oven until it is golden brown and bubbly. This usually takes about 25-30 minutes.

Serving:

Once the torta is baked, it can be served hot or cold, depending on the preference of the chef. It can be served as an appetizer or as a main course. The torta is cut into slices, and each slice is usually accompanied by a side salad or bread.

Conclusion:

Artichoke Pesto Torta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. The layered dish is made with artichoke pesto, cream cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes, and is usually served as either an appetizer or a main course. With its savory and creamy layers, the Artichoke Pesto Torta is sure to delight the taste buds of anyone who tries it.
Artichoke pesto torta is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that can elevate any dinner party. Its unique combination of artichokes, pesto, and cheese creates a tangy and savory flavor that will have your guests coming back for more.

Tip #1: Choose the Right Artichoke

Artichokes come in different sizes and varieties, and it's important to choose the right one for your recipe. For artichoke pesto torta, it's best to use medium-sized artichokes that are tender and have a good texture.
How to Prep Artichokes:
1. Cut off the top third of the artichoke. 2. Remove the outermost leaves until you reach the pale yellow ones. 3. Cut off the stem near the base and trim the bottom of the artichoke. 4. Cut the artichoke in half and remove the hairy choke using a spoon.

Tip #2: Make Homemade Pesto

While it's tempting to buy pre-made pesto from the grocery store, making your own pesto can take the flavor of your artichoke pesto torta to the next level. Homemade pesto is fresher and has a richer taste that can't be replicated by store-bought options.
How to Make Homemade Pesto:
Ingredients: - 2 cups fresh basil leaves - 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup pine nuts - 2 cloves garlic - 1/2 cup olive oil Instructions: 1. Combine the basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. 2. Gradually add the olive oil while pulsing until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. 3. Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste.

Tip #3: Use High-Quality Cheese

Cheese is a crucial ingredient in artichoke pesto torta, and it's important to use high-quality cheese that can enhance the flavor of the dish. Look for fresh and well-aged cheeses that have a tangy and savory taste such as parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese.
How to Choose High-Quality Cheese:
- Look for cheese that is freshly made without artificial preservatives. - Check the expiration date of the cheese and choose those that have the furthest expiration date. - Choose cheese that is stored properly in a refrigerated section of the grocery store.

Tip #4: Layer the Ingredients Wisely

Layering the ingredients correctly is crucial in making a good artichoke pesto torta. Start by spreading a layer of cream cheese on the bottom of a baking dish, then add a layer of artichokes, pesto, and grated cheese. Repeat the layering process until you reach the top of the dish.
Layering Process:
1. Spread a layer of cream cheese on the bottom of a baking dish. 2. Add a layer of artichokes on top of the cream cheese. 3. Spread a layer of pesto on top of the artichokes. 4. Sprinkle a layer of grated cheese on top of the pesto. 5. Repeat the layering process until you reach the top of the dish.

Tip #5: Serve with the Right Accompaniments

Artichoke pesto torta tastes best when served with the right accompaniments. Serve it with slices of crusty bread, crackers, or vegetables such as carrot sticks, celery sticks, or cherry tomatoes.
Accompaniments for Artichoke Pesto Torta:
- Crusty bread - Crackers - Carrot sticks - Celery sticks - Cherry tomatoes

Conclusion

Artichoke pesto torta is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that can impress your guests with its unique blend of flavors. By following these valuable tips, you can make the perfect artichoke pesto torta that will have your guests asking for more.

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