When Are Artichokes in Season?

Have you ever gotten excited about a fruit or vegetable? We’re not talking about the usual suspects like juicy berries or sweet tomatoes. No, we’re diving into the world of the mighty artichoke, a spiky, strange-looking bud that packs a flavorful punch! Have you ever wondered when they are in season? 

First things first, when are these beauties at their best? They actually have two peak seasons:

• Spring Fling: March to May sees artichokes basking in the sunshine, growing plump and juicy. This is their prime time, bursting with the most flavor and tenderness.
• Fall Fiesta: November and December bring another harvest, although smaller than the spring bounty. But hey, who doesn’t love a second chance at deliciousness?

Artichoke Price Perks: Good news! Unlike other seasonal produce, artichoke prices stay pretty stable year-round, with only a slight bump (4-7%) during peak seasons. So, no need to panic buy and fill your fridge like it’s the artichoke apocalypse!

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Where and How Artichokes Grow

These prickly wonders hail from the Mediterranean, soaking up the sun in places like Italy, France, and Spain. In the US, California reigns supreme as the artichoke king, growing almost 100% of the artichokes we devour. And how do they grow? Imagine a giant, spiky pinecone – that’s basically it! They bloom into beautiful purple flowers, but it’s the unopened bud we enjoy, packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

Picking the Perfect Prickly Pal: How to Tell If An Artichoke is Ripe

Now, how do you choose the right artichoke? Look for these signs:

• Tightly closed leaves: No gaps or drooping, they should hug the core like a shy friend.
• Heavy weight: A hefty artichoke means it’s juicy and fresh, not dried out.
• Vibrant green color: No browning or yellowing, just fresh, happy green.
• Squeezable with a little give: Not rock-hard, but not mushy either. You want a happy medium.

Taming the Beast: How to Cut an Artichoke

Don’t let the thorns scare you! Cutting an artichoke is easier than you think. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Trim the stem: Cut off about an inch with kitchen shears.
2. Snip the tips: Use kitchen scissors to clip off the sharp tips of the leaves.
3. Halve it up: Cut the artichoke in half lengthwise with a sharp knife.
4. Scoop out the choke: Using a spoon, remove the fuzzy center (the “choke”).
5. Steam or boil: Cook your artichoke halves until tender, then enjoy!

Storing Your Spiky Friend: How to Store an Artichoke

Artichokes can last 5-7 days in the fridge, but store them right! Keep them unwashed, in a plastic bag with damp paper towels, and away from other produce (they emit ethylene gas that can speed up ripening).

Artichoke Recipe Roundup

Now, for the fun part – recipes! Here are two easy ways to enjoy your artichokes:

• Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy, dreamy dip is a party favorite. Combine cooked artichoke hearts, spinach, cheese, and spices for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Stuffed Artichoke Hearts: Feeling fancy? Scoop out the cooked artichoke hearts and fill them with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, cheese, and meat (optional). Bake until golden and enjoy!

Make Fetch Your Go-To Shopping App

So, there you have it! Now you’re an artichoke aficionado, ready to conquer the grocery store and whip up some delicious dishes. Remember, Fetch is your produce companion, get rewarded on all grocery shopping purchases today!