OK, they’re a little creepy looking, what with the spiny leaves
and claw-like appearance. But artichokes are pretty much as good as ya can get
when it comes to fab-for-you nutrients. Here’s what’s to like about these
fresh, spring-time favorites (and a how to enjoy ‘em, too!).
They’re way healthy
Are you ready for this? One large artichoke packs a major
health food punch. It has tons of potassium, vitamin V, folate, magnesium and
fiber. And about 25 calories to boot. Feelin’ a li’l under the weather? Cook
one up, babe. These suckers have tons of anti-oxidants, which will give your
immune system the hearty boost it needs thanks to spring’s unreliable weather.
And don’t have any fat. None!
Nada. Not a single gram. You’ve just gotta be careful about
what you put on them, but even then,
we’re betting you’ll come out on top. A lot of people eat them with fatty
cheese or butter-based spreads, but what ya dip the leaves in is totally up to
you.
Simon says eat ‘em…
Like chips. Trim the point outer leaves with sharp kitchen
scissors and chop off the stem, then give them a good soak to ditch dirt and
toss them in a steamer inside a pot with just an inch or two of water at the
bottom. Cover with a lid and simmer for forty minutes to an hour, depending on
how large the artichoke is. You want it to be tender when ya take it
out—carefully, it’s gonna be hot! Set it on a plate, serve with your favorite
veggie dip and enjoy.
How, you say?
Pull off a leaf, dip it in your sauce and grab the meaty end
with your teeth. Rake your teeth over the end and you’ll feel a clump o’ the
good stuff come off. If nothing does, you’re probably starting from the wrong
end, so switch sides and try, try again!
Do you like artichokes, chicas? How do you eat ‘em?
BY BRITTANY TAYLOR ON 4/22/2012 12:00:00 AM
POSTED IN nutrition, produce, artichokes