What Is It?
With its origin in the Mediterranean, the artichoke is a member of the thistle family. A single artichoke plant will produce 20 to 30 artichokes. The "Green Globe" variety is the most common and is harvested year-round. The main stem of the plant produces the largest artichokes, the middle branches produce medium-size artichokes, and the lower branches grow what are known as baby artichokes.

When purchasing an artichoke, look for ones that are compact and heavy. They should be solid green in color. Don't select an artichoke that is purplish in color or budding, as this is a sign of being over-ripe.

How Do You Eat It?
"Great," you say, "but how do I eat one?" If you want to get in and out of the kitchen fast, frozen or canned artichoke hearts might be your best bet. Artichokes do require some time and patience. The dark green "leaves" are not edible, and must be peeled away. First, peel away the outer leaves by snipping them off at the base with a pair of scissors. When you reach the yellow leaves with the green tops, slice off the green part with your scissors or a paring knife. (We're almost there!) Next, trim about half an inch off the base. Now, if you're only using the heart, remove it with a melon baller or spoon. Rub lemon all over the artichoke, or place it in a bowl of lemon water, to prevent discoloration.

Some people enjoy eating the "meat" of the artichoke leaves with a dipping sauce. The leaves are dipped into a dipping sauce, usually butter, then the meat is scraped off with your teeth. If served this way, preparation is a lot easier. Just trim off the base with a paring knife, then remove the small, lower leaves. Fill a pot with water and add 1 teaspoon of salt and the juice of one lemon. Stand the artichokes up in pot of water. Cover tightly and boil until the base of the artichoke can be easily pierced with a fork; about 40 minutes.

What Can You Do With It?
Artichokes can be stuffed, used in dips, side dishes, main dishes and as appetizers. They also make a great centerpiece. Just fill a pretty bowl with clean, uncooked artichokes for a simple, but elegant, centerpiece. What could be easier? (No trimming required!)

Now you have no excuse not to try out this strange-looking vegetable. When you steer your grocery cart by it next time, stop! Pick one up (they won't bite), and take it home. If you get it home and change your mind, at least throw it in a pretty bowl or basket and use it as a centerpiece -- don't throw it away like grandpa did.