Fresh Steamed Artichokes with Salsa Verde Italiano

 Fresh Steamed Artichokes with Salsa Verde Italiano

1 lemon, halved

4 large artichokes

Salt

1/2 cup Salsa Verde Italiano

Squeeze lemon into a large bowl of water and drop lemon halves into the bowl.  Trim stems off of artichokes so that they will sit flat and place in lemon water. Working on one at a time, cut off the top pointed end of the artichoke, about one-third of the way down.  Using scissors, trim off the tough looking leaves around the bottom. Trim off the sharp points on the remaining leaves.  Place trimmed artichoke back into the lemon water. Fill a large pot with  about 3″-4″ of water; add about 1 teaspoon salt. Cover and bring to a boil. Uncover pot and place trimmed artichokes in the bottom in a single layer. Cover pot, reduce heat to medium, and steam until tender, about 30 minutes. (When the leaves pull out easily when tugged they will be done.  Remove from pot and place on serving platter.  Serve with a bowl of Salsa Verde Italiano for dipping.

When all of the leaves have been enjoyed, remove the thistle-like choke in the center of the artichoke, then cut up the meaty heart of the artichoke and eat with more Salsa!