High-fiber artichokes are choice for April

April means artichokes -- and a peak supply is expected this spring. While they may not be the prettiest vegetable in the marketplace, they hold their own on the nutrition scene as an excellent choice for low-fat, high-fiber diets. For recipe brochures, send a self-addressed, business-sized envelope to the California Artichoke Advisory Board, Dept. "N," P.O. Box 747, Castroville, Calif. 95012. Or call the toll-free help line at Ocean Mist Farms of Castroville -- one of the largest growers of green-globe artichokes in the world -- at 877-WE-R-CHOK.

Gaithersburg chef named one of best

Susan Notter of Albert Uster Imports in Gaithersburg has been named one of this year's 10 best pastry chefs in America by Chocolatier and Pastry Art & Design magazines. The Maryland chef, who is to be honored in New York this week, joins such prestigious company as Chris Broberg of Lespinasse restaurant in New York and Stephen Durfee of the French Laundry in Yountville, Calif.

Salad pairs pears and cheese

Pears and blue cheese are made for each other. For an easy salad, top lettuce-lined plates with canned pear halves and sprinkle with blue cheese and chopped, toasted nuts. For a heartier meal, add slices of ham or turkey.

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