Some foods are just good. Others fall within the classification scrumptious. There are even some you might call exciting. But what do you say about the artichoke? It's a vegetable with arching, deeply lobed, silvery, glaucous-green leaves (according to Wikepedia, that is). People who cook with culinary flair (Food Network, for example) say the artichoke 'goes great in just about anything and dazzles on its own as well. Use it in panzanella salad, pasta and more tasty dishes." What do you think?

March 16...

National Artichoke Hearts Day

All 'Bout The 'Choke: Did you know the artichoke is a member of the sunflower family? The plant originated in the Mediterranean region and is one of the oldest foods known to man. The edible portion of the plant consists of the flower buds before the flowers come into bloom. Artichokes may be boiled, baked, steamed, grilled, deep fried, and stuffed with all sorts of yummy fillings. In the USA, California is home to the artichoke.