the artichoke

the artichoke.

I think the artichoke is making a come back.  You may say the artichoke never left, what with spinach and artichoke dip, artichoke hearts....but I'm talking about the steamed, or roasted artichoke served whole, a la 80s appetizer style.

The artichoke is low in calories, easy to make and filling...all and all good bang for your buck.

So the in the vain of good bang for your buck, today I have 2 different artichoke recipes for you.

Steamed

In a large pot fill 3/4 of the way with water, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and a pinch of salt.  Bring the water to a boil.

In the meantime you will need to prepare the artichoke. Lay the artichoke on it's side and slice off the top 1/4 inch with a bread knife.  Next use kitchen shears to cut off the pointed edges of each of the leaves.  I like to start from the top and work my way around and down.  You can rub the artichoke with a lemon, however I don't find that it makes that much of a difference.

Place the artichoke in boiling water for 32 minutes.  Remove from water, and set upside down on paper towels, until the excess water has drained out.

Serve with Lemon Garlic Aioli
Mix the zest of one lemon, the juice from half of a lemon, 2-3 crushed cloves of garlic and about half a cup of mayo together. 

Roasted

Preheat the oven to 425.  Prep artichoke (see above). Stick 2 whole raw garlic cloves into the artichoke (wherever you can make room).  Tear off a large piece of foil, it will need to be enough to wrap the artichoke in.  Over the foil drizzle lemon juice, olive oil and salt over the artichoke.  Now fold the foil over the artichoke, wrapping it like a Hershey's kiss. Place in a small pan and place in the oven for 60 minutes.

Serve with Savory Aioli
Mix 2 tablespoons of  Worcestershire, 1-2 cloves of crushed garlic, a pinch of salt, fresh cracked pepper and a pinch of tarragon with 1/2 cup of mayo.

I like to eat both types of artichokes while they are still hot, however many people enjoy them chilled.  Try them out both ways to see what you like best!