Artichoke Baskets With Caper Dip Recipes

Steps:

• FOR ARTICHOKES - With sharp knife, cut off stems.
• With scissors, snip off prickly tips.
• Rinse and shake off water.
• Wrap artichokes in plastic wrap and place on microwave safe plate or place in a microwave safe casserole.
• Add 1/4 cup water and cover.
• Place in microwave and cook on high 5 1/2 to 8 1/2 minutes until lower leaves can be pulled off and base pierces easily with fork.
• Rotate and rearrange halfway through cooking.
• Let stand 3 - 5 minutes.
• TO PREPARE DIP - In small bowl combine mayonnaise, garlic, capers and caper brine.
• TO PREPARE BASKET - Remove 1/4 of one side of artichoke leaves; reserve leaves.
• Carefully remove and discard the choke.
• Place on small plate.
• Fill inside of basket with caper dip and allow some to spill out onto the plate.
• Chill until ready to serve.
• If desired serve with reserved artichoke leaves.
• NOTE:.
• If desired, artichokes can be cooked on stove top.
• Place trimmed artichokes stem side down in small saucepan just big enough to hold them snugly.
• Pour boiling water to a depth of 1 inch, cover and steam 45 minutes over medium heat until done as above.
• With tongs, remove from pot; drain.