One of my favourite signs of spring is the baskets of tender baby artichokes that begin to appear in front of the Danforth’s greengrocers.
I’m sure there’s a really great metaphor hiding in there somewhere, just out of my caffeine-deprived brain’s reach – something to do with the spiky armor-plated exterior, the thready choke lurking within, the somewhat fussy preparation process, and the methodical method in which whole artichokes must be dismantled and eaten. In a 30-minute meal kind of world, artichokes remain adamantly inconvenient.
But oh, what deliciousness awaits those who are willing to brave the artichoke’s defenses and patiently work their way down to its tender heart.
Need a little motivation? Allow me to present five gorgeous artichoke-based dishes that are absolutely worth the hassle.
Italian-Style Stuffed Artichokes (Food Blogga)
Source: foodblogga.blogspot.com via Isabelle on Pinterest
Braised Artichoke Hearts with Olives and Feta (Tartelette)
Source: tarteletteblog.com via Isabelle on Pinterest
Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese (A Couple Cooks)
Source: acouplecooks.com via Isabelle on Pinterest
Grilled Fresh Artichokes (Pass the Sushi)
Source: passthesushi.com via Isabelle on Pinterest
Baby Artichokes and Lima Beans in White Wine Sauce (Food Wanderings)
Source: foodwanderings.blogspot.ca via Isabelle on Pinterest
I have never had an artichoke. I know right! After seeing this I must try.
I love artichokes too, all these dishes look perfect!
As usual Isabelle, love your post and especially your writing. The 2nd paragraph gave me my first good chuckle of the morning!! So true they are a bit daunting but here is a brand new recipideo for you and your readers that might sway you to add it to our 30 minute meal world?? Maybe, maybe?? Let me know what you think! I heart artichokes too!!!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4xi4JRczQ0&feature=plcp
I love artichokes and these look fantastic!
These all look so flippin’ fantastic.
All of those dishes look so good! I adore artichokes!!
I definitely have to get on the artichoke train again. Those grilled artichokes definitely look tasty. Which recipe would be foremost on your menu?
I remember seeing artichokes growing with wild abandon in Greece. I better head to our Italian market!
They’re all so droolworthy, I couldn’t decide!