Artichokes
Globe variety
Benefits
Artichokes contain compounds that help reduce total cholesterol by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis and increasing removal from the body.
Artichokes are high in antioxidants. (They help remove free radical toxins from the body and help keep cells healthy).
Cut off top and bottom, trim leaves, rub w/lemon, steam until tender
Look for canned or jarred hearts in water, toss with olive oil, vinegar, herbs; Roast at 425 degrees for 20 min. Toss in pasta or salads.
The choke: DO NOT EAT
Artichokes are actually a thistle
Vitamins and Minerals
Artichokes are high in fiber (14% RDA), folic acid (17%), vitamin C (20%), vitamin K (12%), Copper (27%), Iron (16%), Magnesium (15%), and phosphorous (13%).
Also contains: B-Complex vitamins, niacin, and manganese.
Good for digestion (fiber), may help lower blood pressure (potassium), heart and liver health (antioxidants), brain health (phosphorous), preventing neural tube defects (folate).
Pizza
Add hearts to your pizza. Dice and scatter!
Pasta
Toss whole grain pasta with freshly grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, fresh ground pepper, and artichokes!
Rice
Spend a little time making risotto...so worth it!
Or saute diced shallot in olive oil, add diced artichoke hearts, lemon juice, fresh parmesan, black pepper, a little white wine, and mix with steamed brown rice!