A couple of days ago I saw one of the most stunning sites I’d ever seen. A Sangria artichoke field.
I would have believed it if you told me I was in France or Italy. The Sangria artichoke field was truly breathtaking — just as an endless field of lavender or sunflowers would be. I was actually in the county of Santa Barbara, in Lompoc, California. (not quite as romantic, I know). Thanks to wonderful people at Frieda’s Produce, the exclusive distributor of this gorgeous artichoke, a small group of other food bloggers and I were able to visit Baroda Farms.
Steve Jordan, the President and owner of Baroda Farms, and his brother are partners with the Italian government in developing new red artichoke varieties, and the Sangria Artichokes are grown from a proprietary seed variety.
Photo credit: Cathy of She Paused for Thought
I could have taken picture after picture of these deep purplish-green wonders. (And I did!) Every angle exposed a new magnificent site.
The pretty, pointy leaves of Sangria artichokes are delicious — they’re quite “meaty” and tender with a subtle, nutty flavor.
When I got home from the farm, I couldn’t wait to slice one in half to reveal the inside.
I could make art with the leaves for hours. Just look at those colors!
And the beauty doesn’t stop here — next I’ll be sharing a recipe for a delectable stuffed artichoke made from another Baroda Farm variety — the Lyon! Stay tuned.
Photo credit: Kelly of Tasting Page
Another great aspect to this lovely day on the farm was getting to spend time with a few other awesome food bloggers. Check out our artichoke farm “selfie” taken by Christina of Christina’s Cucina.
From left to right: Moi, Judy of My Well Seasoned Life (who put together this fantastic outing!), Cathy of She Paused for Thought, Christina of Christina’s Cucina and (in front), Kelly of Tasting Page. So much fun!
You should be able to find Sangria artichokes from Frieda’s at most Gelson’s and Ralph’s Markets.
Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post and as always, all opinions are my own. 🙂
Adair @ Lentil Breakdown says
Looks like a fabulous day! Can’t wait to see/read/salivate more.
valentina says
Thanks, Adair, would have been even better if you could have made the trip. xo
Cathy | She Paused 4 Thought says
What gorgeous photos! It was a wonderful day and I am so glad Baroda Farms and Frieda’s produce shared the day with us. Off to grill some artichokes!
Christina says
Fabulous photos, Valentina! You captured the beauty of the artichokes, and it was a wonderful day spent with friends in a breathtaking environment! Who would have known an artichoke field could be so inspiring!
valentina says
Thanks, Christina. Yes, so inspiring! 🙂
Oakley @ Frieda's says
Thank YOU for coming with us for the farm visit, and for these gorgeous photos. I’m so glad you had a great time!
By the way: thanks for the cookies for my ride home. Only one made it to the house. ;-D
valentina says
Thanks, Oakley. So happy to have been there. 🙂
Laura @ Family Spice says
Oh, so beautiful, Valentina! What a wonderful way to spend your day!
valentina says
Laura, your artichoke pictures are my absolute favorite!
Linda says
My local Safeway Store in Lafayette California featured these
gorgeous Sangria Artichokes, but didn’t say what they were.
So pretty I hated to cook them……
…..But did. Delicious!
valentina says
Linda, I’m so happy you can get your hands on these. I just love looking at them! 🙂 xo
Susan says
I love eating artichokes…but I think your photos provide some ideas for fabulous paintings, too! You have an artistic eye, Valentina.
valentina says
Thank you so much, Susan. From one of the most talented artists I know, I’ll take that as a big compliment. 🙂
David says
How fun was THAT day? Did you wear camo so the artichokes wouldn’t see you?
valentina says
Yes, yes I did. 😉
Kaye Kittrell says
Food bloggers have so much fun! Wow, beautiful photos, Valentina! Thanks!
Sharon White says
I would love to see a photo of you eating the stuffed artichoke. It looks absolutely delicious!! Is there any way to eat them with finesse? Is it OK to lick your fingers (joke)??
valentina says
Well I hadn’t thought of that. 😉 I suppose they might be a little messy, but not terribly, and it’s so worth it. And yes, you MUST be sure to lick your fingers! Enjoy! 🙂