Celebrate the Season: 40 Healthy Spring Produce Recipes


Updated 05/02/12 3:10 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Healthy Spring Vegetable Recipes

We're smack dab in the middle of Spring, and with all the new colors popping up at the farmers market, I couldn't be happier. If you've been picking up Spring produce (like fava beans, English peas, artichokes, carrots, avocados, and asparagus) and are wondering what to do with your new bounty of veggies, here are 40 healthy recipes to inspire you the next time you're in the kitchen. Read more

Taste the Rainbow: Green


Updated 04/12/12 5:55 PM · Posted by · 2 comments

Green Vegetables

Crisp green produce just looks like it's good for you, doesn't it? Out of all of the colors of the rainbow, I tend to prefer green veggies the most. While there are countless fresh and tasty options, I was drawn in particular to avocados, artichokes, english peas, and lettuce. Find out what we like to do with these bright green ingredients when you keep reading. Read more

Satisfy Your Spring Cravings With Warm Artichoke and Mushroom Salad


Updated 04/13/12 8:20 PM · Posted by · 2 comments

Warm Artichoke and Mushroom Salad

It's a rare occasion that I venture away from my trusty steamed artichoke recipe, but in the interest of branching out and getting more creative in the kitchen, I set about experimenting with artichokes. The result: a warm artichoke and mushroom salad over a bed of spinach, with some Parmesan shavings, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. While prepping the artichokes takes some Read more

Simple Steamed Artichokes With Oil and Vinegar


Updated 05/23/12 3:59 PM · Posted by · 2 comments

Steamed Artichokes

When you've got really good ingredients, I believe it's best to prepare them in simple and straightforward ways. When it comes to artichokes, it's best not to mess around much. The flavor of fresh artichoke is unique and earthy, and that flavor is only enhanced by steaming it, then dipping the leaves in oil and vinegar. Once you've prepared your artichoke, which takes minutes, all you really Read more

How to Prepare Artichokes For Steaming


Updated 03/27/12 1:30 PM · Posted by · 2 comments

How to Prepare Artichokes

One of my favorite foods in the world appears completely inedible at first glance. But in a few simple steps, you can really get to the heart of the matter — and the artichoke. Using medium to large artichokes, cut one inch off the stem. With your knife, score an "x" into the bottom of each artichoke. Alternatively, you can cut the stems off entirely, peel the outer layers away with a knife, Read more

A Reader Recipe: Whole Wheat Orzo With Artichokes and Peas


Updated 06/17/11 9:30 AM · Posted by · 1 comment

Whole Wheat Orzo With Artichokes and Peas Recipe

Here's a great recipe that celebrates the best of the Summer! FitSugar reader Dara8182 posted her recipe for whole wheat orzo with artichokes and peas in our Healthy Recipe community group. Orzo is a delicious and fast way to add some whole grains to your diet. This whole wheat pasta cooks in less than 10 minutes and pairs beautifully with fresh Summer veggies. Artichoke hearts and peas Read more

In Season: Artichokes


Updated 06/07/11 8:45 PM · Posted by · 1 comment

When Artichokes Are in Season

Get excited! Spring is in full effect, and that means markets all across the US are filling up with bright green produce. I can't wait to start cooking with the season's favorites: asparagus and artichokes. Artichokes are at their peak from March until June, so now is the time to enjoy these leafy bulbs. To find out how to select and cook artichokes and to share your favorite artichoke Read more

Eat Your Heart Out: 10 Healthy Artichoke Recipes


Updated 04/05/11 11:01 AM · Posted by · 1 comment

Healthy Artichoke Recipes 2011-04-05 03:07:33

One food that we're especially excited about this Spring is the now-in-season artichoke. Besides tasting great, it's also good for you: one medium artichoke contains important minerals like iron and calcium, along with over 20 percent of your daily fiber needs, which may help the body burn more fat. From salads to pastas and everything in between, here's what healthy artichoke dishes we'll be Read more

Simple Tip: Season Artichoke Steaming Liquid


Updated 04/01/11 4:05 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Steam Artichokes

One of the easiest ways to cook artichokes, which are currently in season, is to steam them whole. However, instead of using water, I recommend cooking the chokes in something with a little more complexity. A mixture of chicken broth, white wine, lemons, herbs, olive oil, and garlic is my preferred method. Don't forget to season the liquid with salt and pepper before placing the artichokes Read more

Meet the Best Brunch-For-a-Crowd Dish, the Strata


Updated 02/21/11 7:26 AM · Posted by · 3 comments

Breakfast Strata Recipe

If you've never made a strata before, you are missing out! A strata is a casserole brunch dish that consists of bread, eggs, and cheese. Think of it like a savory breakfast bread pudding. Stratas are excellent for entertaining because they can be assembled the night before the party and feed a large crowd. My favorite strata recipe, one that I've served over and over again, is this version. It's Read more