Categories: Vegetables, Dips 
      Yield: 4 servings 
  
      2    Artichokes (about 12oz each)        1 tb Small capers, OR 
    1/2 c  Fat free mayonnaise                 1 sm Pickle, chopped 
      1 cl Garlic, minced                      1 tb Caper or pickle brine 
  
  Impress your favorite valentine with these lovely artichoke baskets filled 
  with a creamy fat free dip. FOR ARTICHOKES: With sharp knife, cut off 
  stems. With scissors, snip off prickly tips. Rinse and shake ff 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 kip 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 saucepot 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. 
  Makes 2 servings, 129 calories each. 
   
  Origin: Women's World, February 16, 1993 Shared by: Sharon Stevens