Living in California we eat artichokes all year - they are absolutely our favorite. So, I've tried many different ways for cooking them, and the most favorite is roasting on the grill (that's another recipe altogether). I also experimented and during the steaming process, in addition to the seasonings in the water, I pour some balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the artichokes before cooking (making sure that there is a bit of olive oil added) - the aroma while cooking and the flavor while eating cannot be beat. I'm not a big butter fan, so didn't try that. Another option for dipping sauce is to add some curry to your mayonnaise. I know, it's a California thing.........

Reviewed On: Jun. 10, 2008