United Flavors of America – California’s Artichokes

California’s Artichokes

The Golden State’s artichokes glisten with 20% of daily Vitamin C and 27% of daily copper. They’re also loaded with folic acid, Vitamin K and antioxidants that help protect against cancer. While they may be a bit of a challenge to open, Mediterranean cultures have been dining on them for centuries. In fact, the word ‘artichoke’ descends from an old northern Italian word for ‘pinecone’. Americans most often enjoy Artichokes as a restaurant appetizer dip, but just steaming and dousing them with fresh lemon juice is a simple and delicious low-calorie and highly nutritious snack.

Enjoy this easy roasted artichoke recipe

4 artichokes

1 lemon

1 tbsp olive oil

8 peeled garlic cloves

1 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice artichokes in half lengthwise. Rub with lemon juice and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil. Dust with salt and pepper. Place in baking dash with 2 tablespoons water per artichoke. Cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and roast for 20 minutes. Squeeze more fresh lemon juice on top just before serving.

http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/artichoke.html

http://bembu.com/healthiest-foods