Break of the stalk peel of the outer leaves until the soft centre ones and the choke seed heads are left. Quickly scoop these out with a spoon and discard, squeez some lemon juice over the heart and rub it in to stop it discolouring.
Now trim the heart paring any of the dark green leave ends remaining.
Rub with lemon again.
Place in boiling salted water to blanch for 4-5mins depending on the size of the hearts.
Eat as they are with some olive oil and salt, or use chopped and added to a creamy sauce with pasta.
In the picture on this page I served it with Hollandaise sauce, smoked bacon and sun-dried tomatoes.
