When it comes to vegetables, nice Italian restaurants in Manchester often overlook one of the most important of them all, the artichoke.  Yes, you read that correctly.  The artichoke, and we’re not quite sure why, has earned a reputation for being less than desirable. Perhaps it’s a lack of knowledge of proper cooking techniques, or how to combine the vegetable into a meal seamlessly. Whatever the case may be, at Piccola, we love a good artichoke any day of the week.

So, for all of you non-artichoke people out there, we’re challenging you to give it a try.  Here’s why:

They’re loaded with good stuff

Sure, most vegetables provide the body with beneficial nutrients. However, the artichoke blows many of the competition out of the water. Naturally low in fat, an artichoke also loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. From one medium-sized artichoke, you can expect the following:

• 7 grams of fiber
• 4 grams of protein
• Magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron
• Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B6
• Lots of antioxidants. And we mean a lot. Artichokes are one of the richest sources of antioxidants around the globe.

All of these natural properties can help the body in several ways.  There have been several studies showing the effects of artichoke consumption on the body. The results conclude that artichokes may:

• Lower bad cholesterol and encourage the good levels to increase
• Help to regulate blood pressure
• Improve liver health by helping to remove harmful toxins
• Improve digestive health by promoting good gut bacteria
• Help to lower blood sugar levels

It’s easy to incorporate them in meals

While artichokes can be steamed, boiled, grilled, roasted, or sautéed, the best way is really a preference. Steaming is the most popular method, while stuffing and baking the artichoke comes in a close second. The nice thing about this vegetable is that both the hearts and leaves can be eaten. Hot or cold, dipped in your favorite sauce or mixed into your favorite salad, the possibilities truly are endless.

Paolini

Because our team has come to appreciate the artichoke, we’ve created a house specialty we call Paolini. Whether you prefer chicken, veal, or shrimp, we’ll toss your protein gently with a delicious combination of artichoke and roasted red peppers. Sautéed and finished with gorgonzola cheese, this fettuccini based meal sure is satisfying!

If you’re venturing out for dinner, in search of nice Italian restaurants in Manchester, you won’t want to miss Piccola Italia. With some of the most authentic, made from scratch meals in the area, our chefs will leave you wondering why you didn’t visit us soon.

Be sure to check out our menu online and give us a call to reserve your table today!