I first discovered creamy artichoke spread during a trip to Rome, tucked between jars of olive tapenade, capers, and other ingredients I absolutely did not have room for in my suitcase—but wanted to bring home anyway. I still regret not buying that jar of artichoke pâté, because once I got home, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.

Naturally, I decided to make my own.

This creamy artichoke spread is garlicky, slightly tangy, and filled with Parmesan flavor. It comes together in minutes in the food processor and can be used as a sandwich spread, an easy appetizer with bread and crackers, or even a quick sauce for pasta.

And no, you do not need mayonnaise or cream cheese to make it creamy.

What Is Creamy Artichoke Spread?

Creamy artichoke spread is a simple blended spread made with artichoke hearts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and olive oil.

The artichokes give it a light, slightly tangy flavor, while the Parmesan and garlic make it savory and rich. Olive oil brings everything together and creates a smooth, spreadable consistency without making it feel heavy.

It is similar to artichoke pâté or artichoke cream, but this homemade version is made with just a few basic ingredients and can be adjusted depending on how you plan to serve it.

Make it thick for sandwiches and crostini, or blend in a little more olive oil for a softer dip or pasta sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This is one of those recipes that takes almost no effort but can be used in so many ways.

It is:

• Made with only six ingredients
• Ready in just a few minutes
• Naturally creamy without cream cheese
• Easy to prepare in a food processor
• Delicious in sandwiches
• Perfect with crackers, crostini, or fresh bread

Ingredients

You only need a few simple ingredients to make this creamy artichoke spread.

Artichoke Hearts

Artichoke hearts are the main ingredient and give the spread its creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor.

Drain them before adding them to the food processor.

Garlic

Two cloves of garlic give the spread plenty of flavor. Since the garlic is blended into the spread, you get a little garlic in every bite.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan adds a salty, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the artichokes.

Olive Oil

Olive oil helps the ingredients blend together into a smooth, creamy spread.

Lemon Juice

Add lemon juice to taste. It brightens the flavor and adds a little extra freshness.

Salt

Salt brings all the flavors together.

How to Make Creamy Artichoke Spread

This recipe could not be easier.

Step 1: Drain the Artichokes

Drain the artichoke hearts well before adding them to the food processor.

Step 2: Add Everything to the Food Processor

Add the artichoke hearts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and lemon juice to the bowl of a food processor.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Pulse the ingredients until the artichokes are completely broken down and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Stop and scrape down the sides of the food processor if needed.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust the Lemon

Taste the spread and add more lemon juice if needed.

Blend again until everything is combined.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the spread to a bowl or airtight container.

Serve it immediately or refrigerate it until you are ready to use it.

How to Serve Artichoke Spread

One of the reasons I love this recipe is that it can be used in so many different ways.

Artichoke Spread for Sandwiches

This spread is especially good on sandwiches. Use it in place of mayonnaise or mustard to add more flavor.

Try it with:

• Grilled vegetables
• Chicken or turkey
• Mozzarella and tomato
• Roasted red peppers
• Arugula or spinach
• Grilled cheese
• Panini sandwiches

You can also spread it onto wraps or pita bread.

Serve It as an Appetizer

Add the artichoke spread to a small serving bowl and serve it with:

• Crackers
• Crostini
• Toasted baguette slices
• Pita chips
• Breadsticks
• Fresh bread

It also makes a simple addition to a cheese or charcuterie board.

Add It to Toast

Spread it onto toast for a quick breakfast, snack, or lunch.

You can top it with sliced tomatoes, arugula, or an egg.

Use It with Pasta

You can also stir the spread into warm pasta for an easy meal. Add a little pasta water to help loosen it and coat the pasta.

Zayna’s Tips

Drain the Artichokes Well

Drain the artichoke hearts before blending so the spread does not become watery.

Use Fresh Garlic

Fresh garlic gives the spread the best flavor. Since the recipe is so simple, each ingredient really matters.

Add the Lemon Juice to Taste

Start with a small amount, blend, and taste. Add more until the spread has the amount of brightness you like.

Scrape Down the Food Processor

Stop the food processor and scrape down the sides to make sure the garlic, Parmesan, and artichokes blend evenly.

Blend Until Creamy

Let the food processor run until the mixture is smooth and spreadable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned artichoke hearts?

Yes. Canned artichoke hearts work well for this recipe. Drain them before adding them to the food processor.

Can I use jarred artichoke hearts?

Yes. Jarred artichoke hearts can also be used. Drain them well before blending.

Is artichoke spread the same as artichoke dip?

They are similar, but this artichoke spread is lighter and simpler than many artichoke dips.

Hot artichoke dips often contain cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, or melted cheese. This recipe gets its creamy texture from the blended artichokes and olive oil.

Can I use this artichoke spread on sandwiches?

Yes. It makes a delicious artichoke spread for sandwiches, wraps, and paninis.

Can I make this without a food processor?

A food processor gives the spread the smoothest texture. You could also use a blender, but you may need to stop and scrape down the sides several times.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Make the artichoke spread ahead of time and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container until you are ready to serve it.

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• Try my Pesto Halloumi Sandwiches for another easy lunch idea.
• Make my Herby Pearl Couscous Salad for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired side dish.

 From my kitchen to yours, I hope your family loves these as much as mine does. ❤️