Microwaving Artichokes

To cook one: Wash under cold running water. Pull off lower outer petals; cut off stem. Cut off top quarter of artichoke. Set one medium artichoke upside down in small glass bowl with 1/4 cup water plus 1 teaspoon each lemon juice and vegetable oil. Cover with plastic wrap, cook at HIGH power 7 to 8 minutes, turning dish a quarter turn after 3-1/2 minutes. Turn right side up in liquid, recover with wrap and let stand 5 minutes before serving.

To cook four: Wash under cold running water. Pull off lowest petals; cut off stem. Cut off top quarter of artichokes. Place medium artichokes upside down in 2-1/2 quart microwave-safe covered dish with 1/2 cup water, 4 lemon slices and 2 teaspoons vegetable oil. Cook, covered at HIGH power 12 to 14 minutes turning dish a quarter turn after 7 minutes. Turn right side up in liquid, recover and let stand 5 minutes before serving. Recipe developed for 600-700 watt microwave.

Some microwave cooks have success wrapping moist artichokes in plastic wrap and cooking for approximately 7 minutes, depending on size. You might try that method also.

To buy: Available year-round, California artichokes are most plentiful in April and May. All sizes of artichokes are mature and tender. Bronze-tipped petals outside mean delicious "winter-kissed" flavor inside.

Bonus to dieters: the flavor of artichokes prepared in the microwave is so superior that they can be served without butter or other sauces! Just pick off leaves and enjoy as a low calorie treat anytime. There are only 25 calories in a large artichoke!

Remember, the size of the artichoke determines length of cooking time. Note sizes given in recipes and adjust times as needed.