For appetizers, there are some that are a joy to eat, like the Air Fryer Artichokes with Garlic Dip. There’s nothing better than plucking the leaves, dipping them in a flavorful garlic sauce, and savoring the crispy seasoned exterior while scraping off the tender artichoke flesh. Lemon and oil are prominent in this recipe, coating the artichokes’ exteriors and interiors while softening and enhancing their nutty, earthy flavor. Featuring aromatic garlic, creamy mayonnaise, yogurt, and zesty lemon and mustard, the sauce is so delicious you’ll want to drizzle it on everything.
Cooking artichokes in an air fryer leaves them crispier than other cooking methods, and this slightly charred exterior helps seasonings bake in, adding flavor to every bite. Because the artichokes aren’t breaded, they won’t taste like traditionally fried artichokes, but the crunch and subtle smokiness of the outer leaves and the softness of the interior make for a unique artichoke-eating experience. “If you love cooking artichokes, this air fryer method is a quicker and more effortless alternative to traditional steaming. Plus, this hassle-free method frees up time for other things in the kitchen,” says Miriam Hahn, wellness coach and recipe developer who shared the recipe.
Gather the ingredients for Air Fryer Artichokes with Garlic Dip
To make this recipe, you’ll need artichokes, of course. When selecting artichokes, Hahn recommends choosing ones that are heavy and firm with a full complement of leaves, as this is a sign of freshness. While you’re at the produce section, be sure to also pick up some lemons, garlic, and chives.
You’ll also need mayonnaise and Greek yogurt – if you want to make this recipe vegan, use vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free yogurt – then check out the avocado oil, salt, pepper and Dijon mustard for seasonings.
Step 1: Cut off the stems
Trim the artichoke stems so that about 1 inch remains.
Step 2: Cut out the leaves
Use kitchen scissors to cut off the rough parts of the leaves.
Step 3: Cut the artichokes in half
Starting at the artichoke stem, cut the artichoke in half.
Step 4: Trim the top
Cut off the top 1/2 inch of each artichoke half.
Step 5: Cut out the blurry parts
Using a sharp knife, cut away the fuzzy parts of the artichokes.
Step 6: Peel and juice the lemon
Peel the lemon and make the juice.
Step 7: Season the artichokes
Brush both sides of the artichokes with the oil and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper.
Step 8: Fry the artichokes in the air fryer
Place the artichokes cut side down in the air fryer and cook at 350F for 15 minutes.
Step 9: Make the sauce
While the artichokes are cooking, make the sauce by combining the mayonnaise, remaining salt, yogurt, mustard, garlic, remaining ½ tablespoon lemon juice, lemon zest, and finely chopped chives.
Step 10: Flip the artichokes
When the artichokes’ time is up, turn them over and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the leaves fall off easily.
Step 11: Serve the artichokes with the garlic dip
Once the artichokes are done, serve with the sauce.
Air Fryer Artichoke with Garlic Dip Recipe
Air fryer artichokes have a slightly smoky crispness on the outside and a tender interior. Serve with a creamy, tangy garlicky dip.

- 2 artichokes
- 1 1/2 lemons, juice and zest (2 1/2 tablespoons juice), divided
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 crushed garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped chives
- Trim the artichoke stems so that about 1 inch remains.
- Use kitchen scissors to cut off the rough parts of the leaves.
- Starting at the artichoke stem, cut the artichoke in half.
- Cut off the top 1/2 inch of each artichoke half.
- Using a sharp knife, cut away the fuzzy parts of the artichokes.
- Peel the lemon and make the juice.
- Brush both sides of the artichokes with the oil and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper.
- Place the artichokes cut side down in the air fryer and cook at 350F for 15 minutes.
- While the artichokes are cooking, make the sauce by combining the mayonnaise, remaining salt, yogurt, mustard, garlic, remaining ½ tablespoon lemon juice, lemon zest, and finely chopped chives.
- When the artichokes’ time is up, turn them over and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the leaves fall off easily.
- Once the artichokes are done, serve with the sauce.
How can I make artichokes without an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make these delicious artichokes. The easiest way is to cook them in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400F and follow steps 1-8. Cover the baking tray with foil to trap in the steam before placing it in the oven. Cook the artichokes for about 45 minutes or until the leaves come off easily. Time will vary depending on the size of the artichokes.
You can also steam the artichokes the traditional way by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Then follow steps 1-8 again, placing the artichokes in a steamer that fits over the pot. Cover the steamer and simmer the artichokes for 45 minutes to an hour.
You can also boil artichokes by following steps 1-2 and placing the whole artichoke in boiling water for about 45 minutes or until the leaves fall off easily. Once drained, cut the artichoke in half, season, and trim off the fuzzy end of the artichoke.
Are there any other uses for garlic dip?
This tangy, garlicky dip is delicious with a variety of snacks and meals. Try it with carrots, cucumbers, grape tomatoes, red peppers and snap peas. For a heartier dip, serve with whole-grain crackers or toasted baguette. Drizzle a few drops of this sauce over roasted vegetables or add it to hot baked russet or sweet potatoes for extra flavor. Pour the sauce over fresh Greek pita bread and top with roasted vegetables for a quick lunch or dinner.
Make great fries in your air fryer and enjoy the sweet and sour taste of our garlic dip by dipping it in ketchup. Spread the dip on wraps, sandwiches and burgers for a creamy, tangy taste. It’s especially delicious on a sweet and savory club sandwich. Of course, this versatile sauce can be used on any type of fish, grilled shrimp, baked chicken or pan-seared steak.