When are artichokes in season?

They're available year round, but the peak artichoke season is March through May. The large bud shaped vegetables are the meatiest during the spring months. And they're more economical too.

How do you pick fresh artichokes?

When shopping at the grocery store or farmers' market, the freshest artichokes should have a vibrant green color and feel heavy for their size. The leaves will be tightly packed and not look dried out. When you give an artichoke a squeeze, it should make a squeaking sound.

How do you eat an artichoke?

Pluck off one of the leaves, dip in melted butter, and tug the stem end through your teeth to draw off the tender portion of the artichoke meat. After eating the outer leaves, gently scrap out the inedible fuzzy choke to get to the artichoke heart. Cut the heart in pieces, dip in melted butter and enjoy.

What do cooked artichokes taste like?

Artichokes have a flavor similar to asparagus and green beans. They are mild with a slightly nutty and sweet taste. The texture is like a boiled or baked potato.

How do you reheat cooked artichokes?

Cooked artichokes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, wrap loosely with plastic wrap. Heat for 1 minute at 60% power. Continue heating at 30 second intervals until heated through.

How to Microwave Artichokes

Description

Once you microwave artichokes, you'll use this easy and quick cooking method over and over again. Serve with melted butter for a delicious side dish.

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 large artichokes
1 lemon, cut in wedges
1/4 cup butter, melted

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Instructions

Rinse artichokes in cold water.
Trim off stem and 1 inch off the top of each artichoke. Also trim the sharp points off each of the leaves.
Wrap the artichokes loosely in plastic wrap. Transfer to the microwave.
Cook on High for 5 minutes. The artichokes will be ready when a knife easily pierces the stem. If the artichokes aren't finished cooking, continue cooking at 30 second intervals until they are done.
Remove artichokes from the microwave. Let sit for 1 minute.
Unwrap carefully as the artichokes are very hot and will release steam.
Serve with melted butter and lemon wedges.

Notes

Use the tip of a sharp knife to test if an artichoke is perfectly cooked. It should easily pierce the stem. Also the leaves easily pull off.

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: side dish
Method: microwave
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 artichoke and 1 tablespoon butter
Calories: 242
Sugar: 1.9 g
Sodium: 283 mg
Fat: 18.7 g
Saturated Fat: 11.7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18.1 g
Fiber: 9.1 g
Protein: 5.6 g
Cholesterol: 49 g