Fresh artichokes are a classic spring treat, but you can enjoy artichoke hearts all year long.

What Are Artichoke Hearts?
Buried within the rough leaves of an artichoke, is the sweet and tender “heart.” These little treasures have a buttery texture and earthy flavor that you can deepen with olive oil and garlic or liven up with a squirt of fresh lemon. You can find them bagged and frozen, canned in water or jarred, marinated in olive oil and spices. The oil-packed ones are a little higher in healthy fat but draining the oil will help save some calories.

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Giada's Italian Stuffed Artichokes

We’re teaming up with food and garden bloggers to host Spring Fling 2011, a season-long garden party. In coming weeks, we’ll feature favorite garden-to-table recipes and tips to help you enjoy the bounty, whether you’re harvesting your own goodies or buying them fresh from the market. Recently, we dove into the worlds of asparagus and rhubarb — today, we’re tackling artichokes.

I’ll never forget the first time I saw an artichoke plant — it was wild and unexpected. When it comes to cooking, this veggie may also be a bit mysterious to some folks. Artichokes are more user-friendly than you might think. Oh and they’re good for you, too.

All about artichokes, plus ideas from friends and family »