Italian-Style Artichokes

I must admit, I had never really used an artichoke before last night. I love eating them, but I'd never seen anyone clean, cut and cook an artichoke so I was in the dark. Luckily, I watched Lidia Bastianich http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuZai8qgThk and saw how to property cut an artichoke. Then I made a killer sauce and it was a delish side dish, although you could serve this over top chicken, beef or serve with pasta.

Italian-Style Artichokes

Ingredients: (serves 2)
- 2 large artichokes
- 1/2 onion, minced
- 3 garlic cloves, diced
- 1/2 can petite diced tomatoes, (or hand dice 2 fresh tomatoes)
- olive oil
- salt
- pepper
- basil
- oregano
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 1/2 cup water

To Make:

Please watch the above video to see how to property clean and cut an artichoke.

Next, saute the onion, garlic for 5 minutes in olive oil. Season with salt. Slice and add the artichoke. Saute for 2-3 minutes together. Next, add the tomatoes and mix together. Season with salt, pepper, basil and oregano to taste. Add in the water and Cheese. Mix together. Cover and cook on medium high heat for 5-6 minutes until everything is semi thick.

Serve with chicken, fish, beef, pasta or alone.