Artichokes – A Mediterranean Treasure
Considered the crown jewels of Mediterranean vegetables, artichokes are tender, flavoursome, and carefully nurtured to capture the essence of the sun. Among the many varieties, the 'Violetto' is the one most selected at L’AQUILA, ensuring exceptional tenderness and a delicate yet richly complex flavour. Prized for its vibrant purple hue and versatility, this variety stands apart. Handpicked and double-selected in the field, our artichokes are harvested at the optimal size during peak season, when the leaves are tender and the choke has not yet developed.
From harvest to pouch, every step reflects tradition and quality. Within hours of picking, the artichokes are cleaned and quickly blanched — a nearly lost technique that we proudly continue to use — to prevent oxidation, preserve their natural texture, and reduce the need for additives. This careful process ensures that whether whole, halved, or quartered, the hearts remain firm yet tender, delivering an authentic, full-bodied flavour.
We offer a variety of preparations: from simply roasted or chargrilled and served 'au naturel', to lightly marinated with herbs and select condiments. Slow chargrilling develops deep, smoky notes that enhance the artichoke’s natural sweetness and subtle bitterness, while roasting allows delicate herbal flavours to shine.
Perfect in fresh salads, pizza, pasta, colourful antipasti platters, or warm Mediterranean dishes, these artichokes bring both texture and sun-ripened flavour to every creation.
Let's Discover L'AQUILA Premium Artichokes with Recipe Suggestions
Roasted Whole Artichoke Hearts with Stem in Sunflower Oil
These Roman-style artichokes are created following the traditional Roman recipe and are a true symbol of Italian culinary heritage. Obtained from whole stem artichokes, they are preserved in sunflower oil and seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. They are extremely versatile and ready to eat—perfect for appetisers, garnishing main courses, serving gratin-style dishes, and more.
Roman-style artichoke starters
Perfectly cooked to preserve the heart integrity, these artichokes can be served straight from the tray with a dressing of fresh garlic, parsley, black pepper, extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice. This preparation delivers a simple yet authentic fresh version of Roman-style flavours—no cooking required.
Chargrilled Whole Artichoke Hearts in Sunflower Oil
These whole, stemless artichoke hearts are perfectly chargrilled to retain their full, natural flavour and showcase their distinctive artisanal character. Preserved in sunflower oil and enhanced with natural aromas, they are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes— from appetizers to garnishes for main courses of meat or fish.
Mediterranean Antipasto
For a Mediterranean antipasto, arrange the whole chargrilled artichoke hearts on a serving platter along with capers, buffalo mozzarella, stuffed mini peppers, whole pitted 'Nocellara del Belice' green olives, and Leccino natural black olives.
Chargrilled Marinated Artichoke Heart Quarters in Sunflower Oil
These chargrilled artichoke heart quarters are carefully marinated and preserved in sunflower oil, offering a versatile ingredient suitable for a wide range of recipes. Ideal for aperitifs and appetisers, they can also be used to garnish main courses or served as an elegant accompaniment to grilled dishes.
Breaded Artichoke quarters and Artichoke Crostini
Arrange the artichoke hearts in a baking dish, sprinkle with golden breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley, then drizzle with olive oil. Bake until crispy and golden, and serve warm as a starter or side dish.
Alternatively, for rustic 'paesano' crostini, spread soft cheese over toasted bread and top with the ready-to-eat artichoke quarters, fresh peppers, and capers. This combination adds a light smoky note and a pleasant Mediterranean freshness.
Marinated & Seasoned Roasted Artichoke Heart Quarters in Sunflower Oil
Lightly marinated to let the artichoke’s natural herby flavour shine, this classic Mediterranean specialty is cut into quarters and preserved in sunflower oil. Versatile and ready to use, these artichokes are perfect as a pizza topping, in sandwiches and panini, tossed through salads, couscous, or risotto, or for preparing veggie omelettes. They also make a flavourful accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes.
Pizza Capricciosa and Parma Ham Artichoke Salad
In the classic Capricciosa pizza, artichoke heart quarters take centre stage, bringing a natural note of sweetness to this iconic Italian wood-fired pizza. Traditionally paired with tomato sauce, mozzarella, olives, ham, and mushrooms.
Thanks to their delicate marinade, these artichokes are equally perfect in salads, where they enhance the sweetness of Parma ham and ripe tomatoes while balancing the slight bitterness of rocket and the tang of capers.
It is important to note that, given a brief, we can create many variations of the products above by adjusting marinades, cooking methods, and configurations.
Contact us today to enquire.