Pure artichoke & dip

Now is the prime time for artichoke and what an easy starter for any dinner.

1. Cut off the stalk of the artichoke, see pic above. 
2. Rinse  in cold water to rid it of any sand or bugs. 
3. Place in a large pan filled with water. Place a plate ontop of the pan to ensure the artichoke stays under the water while cooking. 
4. Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat. 
5. Allow to cook for approx. 40min. To check for readiness, try to pick off a leaf, if it comes loose easily its ready if not then allow to cook longer. 
6. Strain and rinse in cold water so that it doesn't keep cooking.

I love to serve this as a starter with a simple zesty & creamy dipping sauce which highlights the artichoke flavor.

Simple dipping sauce - IMPORTANT all the below ingredients need to be room temperature:
1 egg
Juice from 1/2 lemon
1 dl sunflower oil (I think olive oil can become to over powering in it's flavor)
pinch of salt & pepper

1. Place all the above ingredients in a hand held blender except for the oil, blend. 
2. Slowly add the oil, keep blending.