Artichoke Week!!

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That's right we are starting off our premiere week with that lovely little thistle, the artichoke. Loved by the ancients, and revered by modern aficionados, this little guy's name is rumored to be rooted in the Arabic term Ardi-Shoki (ارضي شوكي) meaning ground thorny. Bless that Wikipedia and all its fabulous facts. But let's focus on the real deal here. Why do we need to eat it mom?

FIBER! oh yeah grandpa, fiber. One artichoke(120g) has a whopping 10.3 grams of dietary fiber. Throw away that Metamucil and get a glass of artichoke. A can of artichoke hearts in water has 8g dietary fiber. (approximately 22% Daily)

Folates here! get cha' folates!-- Folates are vital in the creation and maintenance of cells, hence their importance in pregnancy. Say no to flipper babies and yes to folates. Also, they significantly reduce the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that folate deficiency is associated with occurrences of depression.

Vitamin C: you've heard about out. You've had the scurvy to prove it. Vitamin C is the quarterback of vitamins. Artichokes are going to give you about 12% of your daily dose.

Now let's get to cooking!!