Perinaldo Artichoke

Perinaldo is a small town in the Crosia Valley, in the far west of Liguria, known for the production of an artichoke variety imported over two centuries ago from nearby Provence. According to legend, the French violet variety was introduced by Napoleon Bonaparte himself during the 1796 Italian campaign. The Perinaldo artichoke is tender and has no spines or choke. In local recipes it is found in little omelets, roasted with Parmesan and mushrooms or in simple fritters with garlic and parsley. The artichokes are grown between 400 and 600 meters above sea level, and are often planted along dry-stone walls because the plants need good drainage. They are tolerant of cold temperatures and drought and need no chemical treatments.

Season

Harvested between May and June, but can be found throughout the year preserved in oil.