Love Your Veggies
Artichokes
Did you know that artichokes are actually flower buds? We think this makes them the perfect springtime veggie for dipping.
An Edible Spring Bud
If ever there was an interactive veggie, it’s definitely artichokes! Their tightly packed petals are fun for kids to use as delicious edible spoons for their favorite Ranch-flavored dressing.
But they’re not just fun to dip — they’re also a good source of potassium, niacin, vitamins C and K, folate, magnesium and fiber.
California produces all of the commercially grown artichokes in the U.S. and they’ve been a local favorite there for decades. Castroville, California is considered the “Artichoke Capital of the World” and celebrates the spring harvest every year with an elaborate festival, featuring a parade and a queen. In fact, Marilyn Monroe was crowned the first Artichoke Queen in 1947!
Pick, Store and Prep Artichokes
To the uninitiated, artichokes can seem a little intimidating. But fear not — a few simple techniques are all you need to enjoy this delightful spring veggie.
Pick
- Look for artichokes that are heavy for their size, with tightly closed leaves and bright green coloring.
- Pass up any that are dry or wilted.
Store
- Don't wash artichokes until you're ready to use them or they’ll wilt faster.
- Place in the fridge in a plastic bag and they'll last about 5 days.
- Sprinkle them with a few drops of water and close the bag to keep them moist.
Prep
- Rinse under cold water
- Cut off the stem at the base.
- Remove the prickly lower petals — this is a perfect job for kitchen shears, if you have them. For easier eating, slice off the top third of the petals.
- Drizzle lemon juice over artichokes to preserve their color.
- Steam or boil for 25 to 45 minutes. Prick the bottoms with a fork to test for doneness.
- Once they’re cooked and ready to eat, pull the petals off one at a time, dip the bottom into your favorite Ranch dressing or melted butter, and scrape with your teeth. Throw out the rest of the petal.
- To eat the heart, remove the fuzzy “choke” off the base, slice and dunk.
- Try cooking in the microwave for a fast, healthy and tasty treat. (Very helpful when you've got hungry kids on hand!) Just place upside-down in a microwave-safe dish, cover and cook on high for 4 to 7 minutes.
Artichoke recipes
These petals aren’t just for dipping. Artichokes are a delicious addition to dips, spreads and lots more.
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Artichoke Appetizer Fingers
Crackers, cheese and veggies come together in one neat, savory package.
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Artichoke Festival Dip
This classic party dip gets a boost of Fiesta Ranch flavor.
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Hidden Valley Torta
A layered cheese dip that's as pretty as it is tasty.
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Elegant Shrimp and Artichoke Dip
Kick off your next dinner party with this fancy starter.
