Artichokes

I don't remember much about Greek mythology, but last week I learned something I never knew before when I came across an article about artichokes. It said that when Zeus was smitten over an object and then rejected by it, he changed it into a thistle... or an artichoke. In the past week, I have prepared and cooked artichokes twice. The first time I received many pokes and cuts; the second time I even had an artichoke splinter in my finger! They are not the easiest vegetable to prepare, but they are very intriguing.


Last weeks Easter dinner included Stuffed Artichokes with Capers and Pecorino Cheese (from Bon Appetit April 2008). Ahhhh, pecorino romano cheese is perhaps my new favorite cheese. I found it in an Italian delicatessan on California Street in Yucaipa -- who knew this old town has something like that hiding up there! Here are the stuffed artichokes, not yet cooked....

And once cooked, served with my Orzo with Roasted Vegetables and topped with a sweet but solid-tasting Balsamic Glaze....


Today was Steamed Artichokes with Herb-Caper Mayonnaise (also from Bon Appetit April 2008). And my herbs came fresh from my herb-garden.... chives, parsley, and dill. I am growing so much anticipation this year since Steve is going to build me some planter boxes for a real garden. I love how supportive he is of all my hobbies, especially when his support is demonstrated with his handy-work, muscle-work, and perfectionism.

Here is (was) tonight's artichoke, accompanied with Grilled Butterflied Lemon Chicken (from Spring Entertaining from Cook's Illustrated Spring 2010).


And finally, yesterday the girls "helped" Steve give the dogs a bath. Syd did a great job holding the leash. Mel was restless and due for her nap. She was all over the place, not able to find an activity or object that brought content -- kinda like she had a thistle in her diaper. So, naturally I was surprised when my camera found her in a moment like this...