5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Artichokes

1) Ancient Egyptians and Europeans believed that the artichoke enhanced sexual power and aided in fertility.

2) Artichokes rank in the top 10 of the highest anti-oxidant containing foods. Anti-oxidants help protect the body from damaging free radicals.

3) Artichokes were a favorite food of royalty in 16th century Europe.

4) Italy is the largest producer of artichokes in the world. It produces around 12 times as many artichokes as the United States.

5) Marilyn Monroe was crowned the first Artichoke Queen in Castroville, California which calls itself the “Artichoke Capital of the World.”