Name: Herb-Scented Little Artichokes in Packets
Ingredients: 2 little artichokes (2 to 3 ounces each); 2 teaspoons olive oil; 2 small thyme, rosemary, or savory sprigs, or ½ teaspoon coriander seeds, or ¼ teaspoon fennel seeds; 1 small garlic clove, halved; Salt and pepper

No mess, no fuss, no pots and pans—this is a dandy way to make friends with the “babies,” if you haven’t yet done so. Pick them up on a whim to perk up a plain meal. Season to taste, customizing flavors for each diner’s fragrant packet.

Ingredients

For Each Serving/Packet

2 little artichokes (2 to 3 ounces each)
2 teaspoons

Method

Turn oven to 375°F. Snap off artichoke bracts until you reach paler green ones. Slice off about 1 inch of the artichoke tip. Pare stems. Halve artichokes lengthwise. Rinse and pat dry.
Set the halves on a square of foil large enough to enclose amply. Rub each artichoke half with oil. Nestle ½ garlic clove each in two of the halves and place an herb sprig (or