Globe Artichokes, 3 x Head

Globe artichokes are a true summer delight. No relation to the gnarly Jerusalem artichoke, they are in fact a member of the thistle family and it is the flower head that we eat before it blooms. The layers of spiky leaves hide a heart of meaty tenderness that is delicious in stews or pasta dishes but really shines in light summer salads where its earthy nuttiness balances with sweet young vegetables beautifully. The leaves are not to be forgotten though; for a simple starter that’s perfect for alfresco sharing, boil the globes in lemony water until the leaves come away easily. Serve them whole and encourage guests pull away their own leaves and dip them in a creamy hollandaise or grassy oil before gently teasing away the flesh from the bottom of the leaf with their teeth.