Last week I ate my first artichoke of the season. I could eat one (or two or three) every night. Eating an artichoke is an experience. Pulling off each leaf one by one. Getting to the heart. They’re best in season and the season is now. Look for tight leaves and the tastiest ones give a little squeak when squeezed.
At the age of 12 I was introduced to them at a friend’s house over dinner one night. Never having seen one, I had no idea how to eat it. Watched and learned and quickly fell in love. When I found out they came from the Monterey area of California my dad started bringing me back a bagful each spring when he was in the area.
They’re the perfect vegetable for kids. So fun to eat. And they’re allowed to eat them with their hands!
I always finish mine faster than Jason and he generously offers me a few of his leaves. But never his heart.
Preparing An Artichoke
Never had an artichoke? You’re in for a treat. Directions on how to prepare and eat them found here. After steaming we like to finish ours on the grill brushed with a little olive oil.
I’ve never been to the Artichoke Festival in Castroville, California but I’m tempted to purchase one of their posters. I like this year’s design but check out some from years past here.
Oh I LOOOOVE artichokes! Although I never eat the heart (which is weird b/c I love artichoke hearts separately!) so you’d be wise to eat them with me so you can have mine. 🙂 I like that 47th annual poster. Hey, did I tell you I bought that Portland neighborhood print that you bought Jason? I got it for Kyle’s birthday but showed it to him way early b/c I was so excited.
No heart? Katalin, who taught you how to eat artichokes:) You can give me your hearts anytime.
Isn’t that poster great? Now you just need to move here.