Cara Mia

ARTICHOKES are native to the Mediterranean, where they were mentioned in Greek and Roman literature dating back to 77AD. In the Mediterranean, artichoke hearts are stuffed, braised, roasted and even slivered thin and eaten raw in salads. The name derives from the Italian word articiocco.

Artichokes were introduced to the U.S. by French settlers in Louisiana and by the Spanish in California. They have grown in popularity in the last couple of decades because of their unique flavor, versatility and nutritional value.

In the U.S. artichokes are grown as perennials. If heads aren’t harvested for food, they produce thistles 3-4 feet tall with large violet blooms. In the Mediterranean, artichokes are planted annually. The artichoke heart is actually the flower bud of the plant. Although primarily a spring crop, marinated and water packed artichokes can be enjoyed year-round.