Artichokes: Health Benefits & 10 Recipes
When you think about vegetables, your first (or even fifth) thought is probably not artichokes. A somewhat lesser-known food, artichokes are indigenous to the Mediterranean and Northern African regions, but have become a rather popular veggie globally. Whether you add them to soups, chicken, or simply eat them alone, this versatile vegetable is actually super healthy, too!
Artichokes are technically part of the thistle family, and we eat the hearts, the soft part at the bottom of the bud. Artichokes are only edible before they bloom, and are best during their peak season of March through May. Once they bloom, they become inedible.
Full of nutrients like vitamins C and A, iron, potassium, protein, and antioxidants, artichokes are an incredible addition to any diet. They’re also high in fiber, which can help regulate your gut health, and they only have about 60 calories, so you can eat a lot of them without a huge caloric intake, which is excellent for weight loss!
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