Artichokes
Preparation Tips
Wash artichokes under running water. Pull off lower leaves, cut stem to 1-inch or less and snip off tips of petals. Brush cut edges with lemon juice to prevent browning.
How to store
Store unwashed artichokes in a plastic bag and refrigerate in vegetable crisper or drawer, away from fruits. Best if used within a couple of days, but will keep in refrigerator for up to 1 week.
How to select
Select deep green artichokes which are compact, firm globes and heavy for their size. (During the summer and fall seasons, artichokes are slightly more oblong in shape, with slightly flared leaves.)
Artichokes should give slightly to pressure and have tight leaf formation. Do not select artichokes with heavy browning, spotting or look shriveled. (However, artichokes can have a slight darkening on leaf tips during late winter or early spring which is caused by chill or frost damage. This will not affect the quality of the artichoke.)