Food on Fridays: All ‘choked up

A miraculous thing happens in the springtime — one that I wait for all year. No, I’m not talking about the theme of a certain Mel Gibson movie. I’m talking about buying artichokes for 99 cents, as they were this week at Hen House. Now, usually I just view the artichoke as the ideal vehicle for scooping loads of mayonnaise into my face. But this year I decided it might actually be nice to enjoy the lighter side of artichokes, which are incredibly high in fiber and low in calories. I found that roasting these bad boys is a great alternative and just as easy as steaming.

Step 1: Cut off the top third and the bottom stem of the artichoke.
Step 2: Stuff some peeled garlic cloves between the leaves.
Step 3: Sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Squeeze lemon juice over all.
Step 5: Drizzle with olive oil.

Wrap the choke in foil and bake at 425 for 75 minutes. The artichoke will be tender, flavorful, and delightful!