If you’re looking for a way to enjoy artichokes that’s both rustic and bursting with flavor, this braised artichokes with tomatoes and basil recipe is just the ticket. It’s simple, wholesome, and loaded with the fresh, sunny tastes of the Mediterranean.
The dish begins with baby artichokes, cleaned and halved, then gently browned to build flavor. Next comes a fragrant base of garlic and onion, followed by juicy tomatoes that simmer down into a light sauce. A generous handful of fresh basil is stirred in at the end, bringing a bright herbal finish that balances the richness of the braise.
This recipe is all about letting the ingredients shine. The artichokes become buttery-tender as they simmer, soaking up the tomato and garlic flavors. The basil adds a fresh lift, and the whole dish is perfect for mopping up with a chunk of crusty bread.
While it’s perfect on its own as a light lunch or side, you can easily turn it into a heartier meal. Serve it over creamy polenta, spoon it onto pasta, or top it with a poached egg. For extra protein, add in white beans or grilled chicken.
Don’t be intimidated if you’ve never cooked fresh artichokes before. The key is trimming away the tough outer leaves and cutting off the top to reveal the tender heart inside. Once you get the hang of it, the prep becomes second nature.
For convenience, you can also use frozen or jarred artichoke hearts, just be sure to drain them well before braising.
This dish is proof that a few good ingredients, prepared simply, can turn into something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, braised artichokes with tomatoes and basil bring the taste of summer to the table any time of year.

Ingredients
- 4 artichokes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup Basil leaves chopped, fresh
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing the artichokes. Cut off the stems and remove any tough outer leaves. Cut off the top 1/2 inch of each artichoke and trim any remaining tough leaf tips. Cut the artichokes in half and remove the hairy choke in the center. Rinse the artichoke halves under cold water and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the artichoke halves to the skillet, cut side down, and cook until they are golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip the artichokes over and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and their juice, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and cook for 15 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the braised artichokes hot, and enjoy!
This recipe is amazing! The flavors were so fresh and vibrant. I’ll definitely make this again!
I’m so glad you loved it! The fresh basil really makes a difference, doesn’t it? Can’t wait to try it again myself!
I don’t know… sounds kinda weird to me. Artichokes? They taste like nothing! Do you really think it could be that amazing?
Why bother with all those steps? Just toss the artichokes on the grill! Waste of time if you ask me.
Grilling is cool and all, but braising brings out so much more flavor! You should try it!
I had a hard time with the artichokes. They’re kinda tricky to prep. But the taste was worth it in the end.
Artichokes can be a pain! I’ve struggled with them too. But you’re right, the flavor is totally worth it! Have you tried adding lemon juice next time? It really helps!
Wow! First time making artichokes and I nailed it! Thanks for the clear instructions! Will make again! 👍
Really? I tried once and it was a disaster! Maybe I need your skills 😂.
That’s awesome! Artichokes can be tricky, but you nailed it! What did you like most about the recipe?
Not bad, but I expected more. The artichokes took a long time to cook, and I added some chili flakes which helped a bit.
I didn’t have fresh basil, so I used dried and it tasted weird. Should I have used more? 🤔 Anyway, it turned out okay but not great.
Using dried basil can definitely change the flavor! Try using a little more next time, or maybe just get fresh if you can. It makes a big difference!
This was surprisingly delicious! So much flavor. I’m not usually a fan of artichokes but this recipe changed my mind! 😍
I thought the dish was nice, but my kids didn’t like it at all. Guess they’re not into vegetables! 🤷♀️
Maybe try letting them help cook? Might make them more interested! 😊
Yum!
Looks delicious! Can’t wait to try it out!
This seems too complicated for me. Why cut off so many parts? Can’t you just cook the whole thing? 🤷♂️