My Favorite Way to Cook & Eat an Artichoke

It’s artichoke season. Hooray! Like asparagus, peas, & other bright green spring veggies, I absolutely adore artichokes. In fact, they are my all-time favorite. So, imagine my excitement when I received the great news from my CSA’s newsletter that I’d be receiving them in my share! Especially when they are selling them at the market for $4 bucks a pop.

I received two in my last share, & as much as I’ve wanted to covet them, they obviously need to be enjoyed! I savored one a few nights ago, & decided tonight I’d say a bittersweet goodbye to the other one. Fingers crossed there will be a few more in this week’s share!

In honor of my favorite spring vegetable, I’ll share with you my preferred way to cook & eat an artichoke…

HOW I PREPARE & COOK AN ARTICHOKE

1. With kitchen shears, trim the thorny tips from the outer leaves.

2. Slice about ¾ inch to an inch off the top of the artichoke & remove smaller leaves towards the base & on the stem, then remove the excess stem

3. In a large pot, add a few inches of water. To flavor the artichoke, add a clove of garlic, a slice of lemon, & a bay leaf. Insert a steaming basket, add the artichoke, & cover.

4. Bring to a boil & reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 25-45 minutes, until the leaves are just tender.

There are many ways you can enjoy your artichoke once it’s been prepped & steamed. Some people prefer to dip it in melted butter, but my favorite way is dipped into a vegan “aioli” composed of vegan mayo, lemon juice & zest, & lemon pepper. It’s the best!