Springtime is finally here which means warmer days, blooming plants, and most importantly – prime artichoke season! To celebrate, we’re taking a deep dive into all things artichokes and answering some of the most frequently asked questions about one of our all-time favorite vegetables!
Where are Ocean Mist Farms Artichokes grown?
Did you know that Ocean Mist Farms is the largest grower of fresh artichokes in North America? Fresh Ocean Mist Farms Artichokes are grown year-round in three fertile California growing regions; Castroville, Oxnard, and Coachella. These growing regions are strategically located in areas with prime soil and microclimates to enable year-round production of the highest quality and freshest tasting artichokes, in multiple varieties!
What are the health benefits of artichokes?
From anti-inflammatory to sleep-promoting properties, the artichoke has an extensive list of various health benefits! Artichokes are anti-inflammatory and can be used as a digestive aid to improve the digestive system while lowering your autoimmune response. They also contain antioxidants that fight free radicals and help protect against aging. Artichokes are rich in vitamins including magnesium, which can help with sleeping. Further, because artichokes are a great source of pre-and pro-biotics, they can improve nutrient absorption and gut health, and increase energy production. To learn more about how consuming artichokes can boost your overall health, check out our artichoke nutrition page!
How do you prep artichokes?
Don’t let prepping this prickly vegetable intimidate you! We’ve got you covered with five simple steps.
- Rinse and scrub - Start by rinsing and lightly scrubbing the natural film off the artichoke
- "Top and tail" - Cut the top and the end of the tail off the artichoke, then snip the tip of each leaf with kitchen shears for a restaurant-ready presentation
- Rub with lemon - Rub fresh lemon all over artichoke to prevent the artichoke from browning
- Spread petals - Loosen and spread the "petals" of the artichoke
- Add seasoning - Add your preferred seasoning and enjoy!
What are the best ways to enjoy artichokes?
Whether baked, steamed, microwaved, pressure-cooked, or grilled, artichokes will be the star of any table! This unique vegetable is delicious no matter how it’s prepared, and we’ve included a few of our favorite recipes for inspiration.
Ocean Mist Farms' Easy Grilled Artichokes
Fire up the grill for these easy grilled artichokes! Break out this recipe at your next barbecue or use it to add some excitement to a weeknight dinner. Either way, this is one of the simplest ways to prepare artichokes and you’ll likely already have the recipe’s other ingredients on hand. This hot, smoky artichoke with a lemony undertone can be enjoyed with any of your favorite dipping sauces!
Stuffed Italian Instant Pot Artichokes
Stuffed artichokes are the ultimate showstopper. They’ll impress any guest, any time! This Stuffed Italian Instant Pot Artichokes recipe is one of our favorites to make because it serves as a great compliment to so many different meals and it only requires 10 minutes of prep time. You simply can’t resist the savory and tangy flavors of parmesan, garlic, parsley, mozzarella, and lemon that come together in this tasty bite!
Hot Artichoke Dip - Instant Pot
You can’t go wrong with a classic artichoke dip! This recipe simplifies the traditional appetizer, coming together with only six ingredients in one Instant Pot. It makes for an effortless and delicious starter that will become a staple when hosting. We love to serve it warm with French bread baguette rounds!
Click here to get a taste of additional easy and delicious artichoke recipes!
What other burning questions do you have about artichokes? Let us know below.
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