Spring in Australia is the prime season for artichokes, those sculptural, thistle-like vegetables prized for both their flavour and health benefits. With their peak harvest stretching from September through November, now is the perfect time to bring them into your kitchen.
Selecting the Best Artichokes
When shopping for artichokes, look for tight, compact heads with firm, fleshy leaves that squeak slightly when rubbed together. The leaves should be vibrant green without too much browning or dryness on the tips.
A good artichoke will also feel heavy for its size, signalling freshness and plenty of moisture inside. Avoid those that appear wilted or have leaves that are splayed outward, as these are signs of age.
Storage Tips
Artichokes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store them, place them in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator unwashed and lightly wrapped in a damp paper towel. This helps maintain moisture and keeps them fresh for up to a week. It’s important not to store them in a sealed plastic bag, as a lack of airflow can hasten spoilage.
Freezing for Later
If you’d like to enjoy artichokes beyond the Spring season, freezing is a great option - but preparation is key. First, clean and trim the artichokes, removing the tough outer leaves and cutting them into halves or quarters.
Blanch them in boiling water with a little lemon juice for about 3-5 minutes to preserve colour and flavour. Once cooled, drain thoroughly and spread them on a tray to pre-freeze before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. Properly stored, they will keep for up to six months, ready to be added to stews, pastas, or roasted vegetable dishes.
Health Benefits
Artichokes are not only delicious but also nutrient-rich. They are an excellent source of dietary fibre, which supports digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Artichokes also provide vitamins C and K, folate and minerals such as magnesium and potassium.
A standout compound in artichokes is cynarin, known to support liver function and stimulate bile production, aiding fat digestion. Additionally, artichokes are high in antioxidants, ranking among the most antioxidant-rich vegetables, which helps combat oxidative stress and supports overall well-being.
Bringing Artichokes to the Table
Whether steamed whole and served with a garlic butter dip, char-grilled for smoky depth, or incorporated into hearty Mediterranean dishes, artichokes lend themselves to a wide range of culinary applications. Their seasonal availability makes them a true Springtime treat in Australia - one that rewards both flavour and health.
Here are three delicious recipes to put fresh and in-season artichokes on the dinner table this week:
Artichokes and lentils complement each other beautifully in a salad. Artichokes bring a tender, slightly nutty flavour that contrasts with the earthy richness of lentils. Together, they create a hearty yet refreshing base. Their textures - soft artichoke hearts and firm lentils - add balance, while their nutrients deliver a wholesome, satisfying and protein-packed dish.
For a speedy dinner on a budget, whip up this artichoke and lentil salad. Topped with hearty meatballs, it’s a great feed for the whole family.
Artichokes and lemon create a vibrant culinary pairing. The earthy, nutty depth of artichokes balances beautifully with lemon’s bright acidity. Lemon enhances the vegetable’s delicate sweetness while cutting any bitterness, bringing freshness and lift.
Arranged on a bed of risoni and artichoke, this lemon chicken is a must-try. The best part is there is minimal prep!
Artichokes and fish make a natural pairing thanks to their complementary flavours. Artichokes offer a gentle bitterness that balances the delicate sweetness of fish. Their tender texture contrasts beautifully with flaky fillets, while both share freshness and subtlety, enhancing each other without overpowering.
You only need 25 minutes to whip up this Italian-inspired seafood linguine. Fresh-tasting and flavourful, it’s a Spring and Summer dish you need to try!
