The Artichoke
These beauties found at the new Fresh Market in St. Petersburg, FL.
I grew up eating these nutty buds stuffed with seasoned bread and dipping the leaves in butter sauce. I haven’t yet been able to convince my own family of their yumminess. I just figure they’re missing out, the sense of satisfaction one receives upon reaching the heart, their loss. But artichokes are more than fun to eat they are a healthy choice as well. They are rich in fiber, and one medium artichoke can provide us with 3.5 grams of vegetable-based protein, a boost of Vitamin C, folate and potassium. Only 60 calories and zero fat, yee haw!
Scared to choose them and cook them? Their is a really great article on how to choose, prepare and cook artichokes in the current Clean Eating Magazine. It makes these prickly little critters a breeze to work with. You can also find a nice guide here at Simply Recipes.
Guide to choosing:
1) Choose one that’s heavy for it’s size, no wrinkles running from the inside tip of the petals to the base.
2) Look at the stem. A blackened cut could mean it has been stored too long.
3) Avoid those with spongy brown patches.
Mangia!
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Filed Under: Food, Food LOVE, More LOVE, Photo LOVE
