It’s spring again, and that means we’re in prime-growing season in the capital of Artichokes: Castroville, Calif. From April to May, Castroville comes alive as the Green Globe Artichoke crop is harvested, and this year is no different. April is the peak harvest period for the classic Green Globe variety of Artichoke, a chef and foodie favorite that only grows in the central coast of California. Our family farms started growing Green Globes in 1924 and they quickly became the industry’s “gold standard.” The perennial plant only produces larger volume of Artichokes twice a year – in the spring and fall. Look for Ocean Mist Farms Green Globe Artichokes now in your local supermarkets and club stores, and ask for them by name. And if you are lucky enough to be in the Castroville, Calif. region May 15 and 16, you could take part in the famous Artichoke Festival. This year’s festival is commemorating the delicious and healthful Artichoke, and it marks the 51st anniversary for this family oriented celebration. As more people became interested in Artichokes over the years, the festival blossomed into a two-day event offering interesting Artichoke-based recipes, an art competition and a colorful parade. The festival is a great way to experience the different ways Artichokes can be enjoyed – from fried Artichokes to Artichoke ice cream – and the festival offers activities the entire family can enjoy. One of the most anticipated events of the festival is the yearly Artichoke King and Queen contest. The contest is also an important part of the region’s history as Norma Jean, better known as Marilyn Monroe, was crowned as the first Miss California Artichoke Queen in 1947! Those attending the Artichoke festival can also expect to enjoy cooking demos, wine tasting, agro art and tours through Ocean Mist Farms’ fields. These field tours take people inside the Artichoke-growing process and provide information on how we plant, cultivate and hand–pick Artichokes throughout the growing season. Here are a few ways to get in on the fun: Recipes We Recommend – Artichokes and Dipping Sauces:
The Perfect Combination If you can’t make it to the festival, you can still celebrate the peak of the season with theses great–tasting recipes. Try our recipe for Lime Cilantro Dressing featuring tangy fresh lime juice, spicy Cilantro and the heat of ground cumin – it’s perfect for dipping Artichokes. You can also watch our short videos for three new dipping sauce ideas created by Chef Tony Baker of Montrio Bistro in Monterey, Calif.: |
