Artichokes is one type of vegetable which really is best served simple. Its unique taste and lovely texture really shows well when boiled or steamed. One of our favorite ways to serve artichokes is to make a very simple dipping sauce where you combine good quality mayonnaise (home made would be excellent but a good store bought version also works well) with some lemon zest and juice, or with some good quality balsamic vinegar. Finish the sauce off with some salt and pepper and you're ready to dip. Another alternative would be to melt a few tablespoons of butter and add some fresh lemon juice. And that's it! Boil or steam the artichokes, let cool for at least 10 minutes since they carry a lot of heat, and then serve with this sauce. Either display in the center of the table, or give each person their own artichoke and small bowl of sauce. This is best served with a cool glass of white wine or maybe a martini.
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