Here ’s how to make the most of their poor season .

Grant Webster

This deliciousgreen and empurpled vegetableis native to many Mediterranean countries . However , most of the artichoke sell in the United States are grown in California . The Italian variety Green Globe is the most wide available on grocery shop shelf . Artichoke time of year is brief , last from March to May , so grab them as presently as you see them . Grilled , steamed , scorched , or raw — artichokes are a various outflow veggie . Here are two method for storing artichokes .

Artichokes on wood cutting board

Credit:Grant Webster

Juliana Hale , senior steel manager , Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen

How to Choose a Ripe Artichoke

Many believe the first spring artichoke are the most saporous of the season . select artichoke globes that palpate heavy for their sizing and are immobile with unripened or purple leave that are tightly closed . When advanced , an artichoke will " skreak " as the leaves rub together . Test this by giving the artichokes a aristocratical clinch . invalidate artichokes that have discolored , dried , or shrink leave .

How to Store Artichokes

There are several way to store artichokes . Here are two method our Test Kitchen recommend .

How to Store Whole Artichokes in a Bag

fund globe artichoke loosely twine in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for a calendar week or two . They ’re prostrate to mold , so verify they are n’t wet or moist when place in the bag . check into them often to ensure they ’re as teetotal as possible .

How to Store Whole Artichokes in a Jar

Treat artichokes like you would fresh herbs , a bouquet of flowers , orasparagus shaft . Trim a second off the stem and invest the artichokes stem - side down in a jar with a bit of water . You want the stem to be whole overwhelm , but not the bottom of the artichoke ball . deepen the water daily and chink for house of mold or spoilage . When stored properly with clean water supply , they should last up to one week in the fridge .

How to Store Artichoke Hearts

If you have leftover jarred or canned artichoke plant warmheartedness , store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 - 3 days . Before eating , check for any signs of spoiling such as a foul olfactory perception or slimy grain .

Can You Freeze Artichokes?

you’re able to freeze down artichokes , but you ’ll need to fudge them first . harmonise to theCalifornia Artichoke Advisory Board , rude artichokes will bend dark-brown upon thawing . Here ’s their recommended method for freezing globe artichoke .

Tips for Cooking and Eating Artichokes

Keep these helpful tips in idea as you make the most of artichoke season .

Plate of cooked artichoke with lemon

Credit:Grant Webster