Technically, it was still winter when I arrived in Rome, but the bright blue sky and budding trees seemed to argue with Mother Nature -- and so did the produce on display. Stalls were brimming with springtime goodness, from strawberries to asparagus to Rome's most beloved vegetable -- the artichoke.
Adore the snapshot above, taken during a tour of Testaccio Market. Isn't she lovely? Take a long lingering look at her.
Now, take a look at the artichoke in abundance...
Talk about abbondanza! Carciofi were piled high throughout the market and they appeared on every trattoria and ristorante menu I encountered.
Coratella Con Carciofi by that bar at Tram Tram in the bohemian San Lorenzo district? Yes, please...
Carciofi alla Giudia at the elegant il Marchese? Absolutely...
If a man wants to win my heart, bring me a full-on bouquet of these beauties. I'd call that romance Roman-style.
Artichoke amore.
Carciofi carnalità.
It's real. It's wonderful. And, it's best enjoyed in Roma.
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