ARTICHOKE: A FUN FOOD TO EAT WITH YOUR FAVOURITE DIP OR ADDED TO A GREAT RECIPE
I often forget about adding this vegetable to my weekly shopping list but I’ve been making a conscious effort lately to make sure it is on my list. I love the taste of these guys on there own, with a great healthy dip or in a great recipe; try adding them to your weekly plan, you’ll not only enjoy the taste but you’ll be getting all of these great nutrients!
Fibre
Calcium
Iron
Magnesium
Phosphorus
Potassium
Zinc
Copper
Manganese
Vitamin C
Vitamin B
And if that’s not enough, they also contain phytochemicals like chlorophyll and beta-carotene and are helpful for the following:
Water retention
Balancing blood sugar
Balancing blood cholesterol levels
Stabilizing metabolism
Liver protection
Stimulation of bile flow
When purchasing artichokes look for ones that have thick, fleshy leaves and that are tightly compacted, they will keep in the refrigerator for about 5 days in a plastic bag. It’s best not to wash or trim them until ready to prepare and to help keep them a little moister while storing, add a little water to the plastic bag.
When you are ready to prepare them, swish them around in some cold water and cut the top of the bud off (about 1”), trim the outer leaves with a pairing knife and cut the stem off so it is flush with the bottom. Gently open up the leaves a little so that the water gets in between them then you can place them into a steaming basket over boiling water that has had a little garlic added to it. Steam for about 25-45 minutes, depending on the size, once the outer leaves can be easily pulled off it’s done. Once you reach the inner part, so the leaves are all gone, you’ll want to scrape out the “fuzzy” inedible part; what’s left on the bottom is the heart and can be cut up and enjoyed.
I like to enjoy these guys with my favourite healthy dip, added to a salad or as a topping on a great thin crust pizza but there are many ways to add these to your meal plan. Click below to find some other great ways to enjoy them:
Anyone who is allergic to ragweed may want to be cautious if you’ve never eaten Artichoke before; you may be sensitive and more prone to an allergic reaction
Sending a Wish Your Way For A Well BALANCED Day
Jenny
