Artichokes are a taste treat at any table.
A few fun facts about the first of our favorite March "A" produce:

* Artichokes are members of the thistle and sunflower families.
* California grows the majority of U.S. artichokes.
* Roman naturalist Caius Plinius Secundus dubbed the artichokes "one of the earth's monstrosities." Romans prepared their artichokes with honey, vinegar and cumin.
* An artichoke's antioxidant levels actually increase with cooking! (bonus)

Next up -- how to choose a perfect artichoke and prepare.