Victoria Artichokes

Victoria Marinated Artichoke Hearts are made from tender artichokes, marinated in oil and vinegar. Our Marinated Artichoke Salad is made from the same tender artichoke hearts, sweet red pimiento peppers, green olives, and marinated in oil and vinegar. Both products are seasoned to perfection with delicate spices, to create a wonderful taste that is delicious in salads, as a garnish, or appetizer.

The artichoke (Cynara scolymus), was first developed in Sicily, Italy, and there are many references of the plant in Greek and Roman literature as far back as 77AD. The Spanish settlers brought artichokes to California in the 1600's.

The artichoke is a perennial in the thistle group of the sunflower family and is believed to be a native of the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands. In full growth, the plant spreads to cover an area about six feet in diameter and reaches a height of three to four feet.

The "vegetable" that we eat is actually the plant's flower bud. If allowed to flower, the blossoms measure up to seven inches in diameter and are a beautiful violet-blue color.

Artichokes were first cultivated in Naples around the middle of the 15th century and gradually spread to other sections of Europe. After the fall of Rome, artichoke became scarce but re-emerged during the Renaissance in 1466 when it was brought from Naples to Florence.

Marinated Artichoke Hearts are packed in 6 oz. and 12 oz. glass jars.
Artichoke Salad is packed in 12 oz. glass jars.