You know what I love?

Once in a while, I remember how much I LOVE artichoke! A perfectly steamed artichoke with just the right dipping choices can really hit the spot. A couple nights ago, the craving hit, and I'm still thinking about it.
SUCH good flavors.. tempted to go buy more!
This time, we kept it real simple. Two choices: lemon butter and a delicious tarragon mayo.
Served it with a side of sourdough garlic bread.. Really felt like an indulgent treat. And so easy!

To Steam an Artichoke:

• Pour about an inch of water into a large pot. Cover and bring to a boil. While the water is boiling, trim the stem so it's flush with the artichoke, and pull off outer leaves.
• Uncover pot and arrange artichoke(s) bottoms up. Cover pot, reduce heat to medium, and steam artichokes until tender, 20-40 minutes. When leaves can be pulled easily and the base can be punctured with a fork, it's ready!
• Drain well and transfer to a plate. Make sure to keep a dish nearby for the discarded leaves.
  

Sauces:

• For Tarragon Mayo, just mix some fresh tarragon with a cup of real mayo. Add a bit of chopped shallots, with some lemon juice. Salt and pepper to taste.
• To make the lemon-butter,  whisk together melted butter,  a little lemon juice, salt and pepper, to taste; transfer to a bowl.
  

Serve artichokes warm, with lemon-butter and tarragon mayo on the side for dipping. Enjoy!