Get Fresh with Artichokes!
We've got the history, anatomy and, of course, culinary facts behind this flower of the artichoke plant. School is now in session!
Choose Your 'Choke!
Artichokes should be firm and heavy for their size, with tightly packed leaves that squeak when you rub them together -- that means they're extra fresh. Globe artichokes, the most common grocery store variety, come in different sizes, and each has its charm.
Artichokes Size Up
Large Artichokes (left) usually have tougher leaves with meaty bases and are best when stuffed or baked. Bonus: They have the biggest hearts!
Baby Artichokes (middle) The beauty of these lil' guys? There's no choke! Just trim the tops and stems, pluck any tough outer leaves, and they're good to go!
Medium Artichokes (right) have small, tender hearts and are ideal for steaming or boiling.
Chart Topper!
Surprise! Artichokes ranked seventh overall in a USDA study measuring levels of cancer-fighting antioxidants in more than 100 of the most commonly eaten foods. Take that, strawberries (which came in at number 11)!
Buzzkill
Wine and artichokes just don't mix. Cynarin, a compound found in 'chokes, causes chemical changes in your taste buds that leave a swig of vino tasting like saccharine (yuck). If you dare to pair, dry a dry, acidic wine, like chenin blanc, to balance the sweetness.
Artichoke Inspiration: Char-tichokes
Trim the top and spiny leaf tips off a medium artichoke and cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the choke, steam until tender, then brush the cut side with EVOO mixed with a little lemon juice. Grill until charred; serve with a dipping sauce made by mixing EVOO with lemon juice and chopped mint.
Artichoke Bruschetta
Swap out tomatoes for canned artichokes -- a unique take on a classic appetizer!
Deadly Good Artichoke Dip
This dip will make you feel like you've died and gone to heaven.
Grandpa's Stuffed Artichokes
Explore the heartier side of artichokes with this crowd-pleasing party-starter.
Artichokes Vinaigrette
Young artichokes work best in this dish, as they'll have the shortest boiling time.
Artichoke Frittata
Perfect for brunch, lunch or dinner, this one-pot wonder is sure to please.
Spinach-Artichoke French Bread Pizza
Your family's favorite dip is now the perfect weeknight meal.
Lamb with Leeks 'n' Artichokes and Lemon Rice
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this square meal.
Spinach & Artichoke Tuna Melts
Amp up your tuna sandwich with this dynamic duo of ingredients.
Chicken with Artichokes
This well-rounded meal will come together in a flash and will only cost you $10 or less.
Artichoke, Tomato and Spinach Pizza
Your pizza joint ain't got nothin' on this homemade pie.
Stuffed Portobellos with Bread Salad
This is a vegetarian dish that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Skinny Spinach-Artichoke Dip
We've healthified a snack food favorite by replacing mayo with Greek yogurt and adding protein-packed edamame.
Chipotle Artichoke Dip
This spicy-smoky twist on a classic is great for a last-minute get-together.
Artichoke Toasts
Use any leftover Chipotle Artichoke Dip as the base of this snack idea
Sauteed Artichokes
Round out your meal with artichokes sauteed in aglio e olio, an Italian duo of garlic and olive oil.
Artichoke Carpaccio
Thinly sliced marinated raw artichokes are beautiful, flavorful and fresh.
Baby Artichoke Crisp
This side dish is perfect for a chilly evening with friends.
Heart and Sole
We bet you can guess where this seafood dinner gets its name!
Potato, Spinach and Artichoke Soup
A stick-to-your-ribs soup that's just as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy.
Artichokes with Lemon-Garlic Sauce
When it comes to appetizers, simpler can be better!
Almond-Herb Pesto Pasta with Artichoke and Tomato
Pesto-coated artichokes juicy tomatoes and penne.
