Steamed Artichokes

Artichokes                          
Lemon Juice
Salt
Olive Oil
Water

Prep.          
Fill a bowl with water and juice of one lemon.
Rinse the artichokes in cool water and cut the stem 
off the bottom.  Slice the top 2-3 inches off the 
top of the artichokes with a serated knife.  Snip the
tips off the remaining leaves and place in the lemon
water.  This will keep the artichokes from turning black.

Microwave:
Place the artichokes in a deep microwave safe dish with
about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water and the juice of one lemon.
Cover tightly with Seran Wrap and microwave for 5 min. per
artichoke.  When a knife goes into the stem easily it 
should be done.

On The Stove:
Place artichokes, juice from 2 lemons, 2 tablespoons 
olive oil, salt, in a pot with enough cold water 
to cover the artichokes. 
Boil for 30 to 35 minutes or until tender. 
When a knife goes into the stem easily it should be done.
Remove artichokes from pot and let cool. 


Delicious served with:

*** Lemon Butter Sauce

2 sticks or 1 cup melted butter 
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest 
1 TB lemon juice 
salt & pepper to taste 

Whisk together all sauce ingredients and serve in small dipping bowls.

 
*** Balsamic Vinaigrette

1 TB finely minced garlic 
1 TB finely chopped parsley 
1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar 
1/2–3/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 
salt and freshly ground black pepper 

Combine garlic, parsley and vinegar. Whisk in olive oil 
until mixed. Season with salt and pepper. 
Serve in small dipping bowls.


*** Mayonnaise
1 cup mayonnaise 
1 1/2 TB finely chopped fresh Parsley 
1 TB finely chopped white onion 
2 tsp fresh lemon juice 
pinch of cayenne pepper or Tabasco 
salt to taste 

Whisk together all ingredients and serve in small dipping bowls.