What Do I Make with Artichokes?

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Artichokes are one of my favorite vegetables, but they can take some time to make. They are the type of vegetable you order at your favorite restaurant. But if you are new to them, you can simply steam or boil them in a large pot and enjoy dipping the leaves and eating the heart in a sauce or vinaigrette. Once, you cook this vegetable, it will be much easier for you to understand the importance of preparing them to eat. (see notes below). So,when visiting your next famer’s market, pick up a few and try one of my easy recipes. To find where your local farmer’s market are in your area, look up your local San Diego Farm Bureau or San Diego Edible Magazine for a listing.

Why are artichokes not so popular?

The have a furry interior called the “choke” that needs to removed and is inedible.
The heart which is what you eat, is somewhat hidden and must be carefully cleaned.
The outer leaves are edible after steaming, by using your teeth to scrap only the inside tips of the artichoke.
This is why I have written so many recipes for you, because it is a very popular vegetable in the Greek Diet.

These are Spring Artichokes which are a bit smaller, great for dipping, salads, and appetizers.

If you are at a local farmer’s market, look for bright green and leaves that are not open, signifying they are not fresh. You will also see various types of artichokes and sizes. If you are using them in the recipe above, they can be the smaller variety, often used for salads, risottos, and appetizers. The larger, more common artichoke is so versatile for cooking, stuffing, braising, steaming and adding to your stews. Below are a few examples.

Artichokes Stuffed with Bulgur and Mushrooms

Lamb Stew with Artichokes

Greek Braised Chicken with Artichokes

Arugula Salad with Fava Beans and Artichokes

Here, I used the marinated artichokes, which you can find in a jar at your local stores. These are great for hummus, a feta and artichoke dip, and in pasta salads which I make often!

They can be grilled whole and sliced in half with a drizzle of evoo, as well as a kabob with a vegetable of your choice. Grilled Artichokes with Roasted Striped Beets

Enjoy exploring with this incredible vegetable!