I have a true love-hate relationship with artichokes. They are one of my favorite foods—there is nothing quite like the buttery texture and nutty flavor of a perfectly steamed artichoke. That said, they could not be more high maintenance. Aside from the extensive prep work they require, I also seem to have a contact allergy to the fuzzy vegetable. When I’ve finally completed the arduous task of trimming and cleaning a bunch of artichokes, I’m rewarded with their unparalleled flavor but also an itchy rash all over my hands.
Now, a little rash never really came between me and my love for all things artichokes, but three children certainly have. Long gone are the days when I’d wistfully wait for spring artichokes to make their debut at the store. I no longer have the privilege (or time) to stock up on globe artichokes and simmer them slowly to tender perfection. Sometimes I struggle getting chicken nuggets and fries on the table for dinner, let alone one of the most high-maintenance vegetables out there!
Now, if I want to enjoy artichokes, they pretty much have to come from a can, which is just not the same as fresh. Canned artichokes are preserved in brine, which muddies their inherent nutty, verdant flavor.
Lately, my luck has changed. During one of my recent self-care strolls through the aisles of Trader Joe’s, I stumbled upon the ultimate freezer find: Trader Joe’s Artichoke Bottoms. Their bubble gum pink packaging stood out to me like a beacon in the night. At $2.99 for a 14-ounce bag, this is one of my favorite TJ’s finds to date.
Trader Joe’s Artichoke Bottoms
- Price: $2.99 for a 14-ounce bag
- Why I Love It: These fully-prepped, pre-cooked artichoke hearts are the easiest way to enjoy the high-maintenance vegetable. I love that all I have to do is defrost the bag and then use them in a variety of dishes.
Simply Recipes / Molly Adams
Why I Love Trader Joe’s Artichoke Bottoms
Unlike most frozen artichoke hearts, which usually contain some of the tough and fibrous leaves, these bottoms are pure, unadulterated artichoke hearts (aka culinary gold!). The seven to eight bottoms in each package come pre-cooked. All you have to do is let them defrost in the fridge overnight, then use them just as you might use canned artichokes. The bag also states that if you are short on time, you can also set the bag under cold running water for about 15 minutes.
My favorite preparation is to sauté the bottoms in a little butter and white wine for a super easy side dish. Or, simply chop them and add them to salads, pastas, soups, and stews.
Trader Joe’s has the genius serving suggestion of stuffing them with cold salads, which I think would be really fun for spring entertaining. If you can’t find any at your local Trader Joe’s, my apologies—they are probably all hiding in my chest freezer. These are a limited-time item, so in all seriousness, be sure to grab them while you can.
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