Fresh Artichoke and Parmesan Salad

Artichokes are a favorite springtime ingredient in classic Italian cuisine, and with good cause.  Artichokes are much easier to clean than you think, and worth the extra effort once you enjoy these crisp, complex beauties.  I'm lucky here to have select fruit and vegetable vendors who provide pre-cleaned artichokes, so check with your local farmer's market vendors and see if you can get them cleaned already if you're really put off by the preparation steps.

Rest assured though, once cleaned, this dish comes together in just minutes.  With a small number of steps and some extra elbow grease, you'll be able to put a most rewarding springtime veggie recipe on the table for your loved ones - their joy will be a huge culinary reward for you!