Artichoke Amore in Rome

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.