[Flickr: magpie-moon]

Depending on where you live, it may already be artichoke season. While artichokes grow wild in parts of Mediterranean Europe, they're cultivated in parts of the States; an enormous percentage of the country's supply comes from California. Part of the thistle family, the plants have huge, edible buds that constitute the artichokes we see at the store and in markets.

If you're looking for the best artichokes, go for tightly packed leaves, taut skin, and a heavy feel. When properly stored, artichokes can last for up to two weeks, but the sooner you eat them, the fresher they'll be. And though you may have never tried artichokes in any form but simply boiled or stirred into dip, we've got a number of recipes to help you make the most of artichoke season.

Recipes

• Artichokes with Mint and Chilies
• Baby Artichokes, Sicilian Style
• Marinated Baby Artichokes
• Artichokes Basted with Anchovy Butter
• Grilled Artichokes with Smoky Tomato Vinaigrette
• Artichokes alla Contadino

What's your favorite artichoke preparation?